The evening of October 22, entrepreneur members and guests of the FACC gathered at Watson, Farley & Williams (New York) LLP for a dynamic roundtable discussion and networking reception. The theme was Entrepreneurship & Innovation.

Following an introduction and overview of WFW, Jabril Bensedrine, Founder & Managing Director, Triana Venture Partners, opened the discussion. Noting that only 20% of entrepreneurs truly succeed in the United States, he emphasized the importance of such roundtables to exchange advice and best practices. He also noted the support given by New York State and New York City in the promotion of entrepreneurial activities.

Dr. Sam Natapoff, Senior Advisor to NY Governor David Paterson on International Commerce & Senior Vice-President of International Economic Development, Empire State Development Corporation, provided an overview of his role in assisting French companies that move to New York. Emphasizing the need for increased information-sharing, and the fact that business - not government - creates jobs, Dr. Natapoff also explained the role of the NYCEDC and outlined the many resources offered by this agency to entrepreneurs.

Discussing the NYC Economic Development Corporation, Terry Jackson, Managing Director Division for International Business, Office of the Mayor, New York City, also offered an overview of the Mayor's Office and highlighted the initiatives being developed by this office to not only support entrepreneurs, but also create 13,000 new jobs. Indeed, as stated by Ms. Jackson, "New York is a great place to start a business."

David Hochman, Executive Director, Business Incubator Association of New York State, explored the role of BIA, a non-profit trade association. Providing incentives for small business in New York, its mission is to expand the resources available to incubator-based enterprises. As suggested by Mr. Hochman, "economic growth comes from small companies."

Philippe Manteau, Counsel, Watson, Farley & Williams, presented 10 Legal Tricks in 10 Minutes and highlighted the importance of securing solid legal advice prior to setting up or developing a business. Mr. Manteau expored the many legal issues facing entrepreneurs, including the value of U.S. stocks as incentives; the protection of trademarks and intellectual property; the differences between distributors and agents; the warranty, liability and indemnification issues surrounding contracts; and labor law and immigration regulations.

Turning to a dynamic discussion, a number of FACC member entrepreneurs shared their advice for success and their best practices, including Vanessa Nugent, Co-Founder, Graphicness LLC; Odile Gorse, Founder & President, G&O Art LLC; Ken Pollet, Founder & President, Answer Human Assets; and William Blanchet, Founder & Principal, Blanchet Management CPA.

A networking reception concluded the evening, and included wine generously donated by FACC member Baron Francois.