Entrepreneurs get pep talk at Beantown Biz Bash

LIMA — Area entrepreneurs and business leaders heard some big ideas and made networking connections during Beantown Biz Bash, held Thursday at Veterans Memorial Civic Center’s exhibition hall. An estimated 40 vendors were on hand with their services, many focusing on helping out their fellow business owners. A slate of speakers also spoke about entrepreneurship at the event, organized by the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Margaret Young, dean and director of The Ohio State University-Lima, offered insights of cultivating “the next generation of regional entrepreneurs.” “Notice how I didn’t say anything about how do we train new employees. How do we cultivate entrepreneurs, the problem-solvers, the risk-takers and the workers who will ensure our community remains vibrant, competitive and self-sustaining for decades to come?” She described needing three pillars, including the ability to recognize the value of new information, assimilate it and apply it commercially. Secondly,