Nerenhausen adds that, unlike social entrepreneurship (which often takes on large-scale problems through the transformation of an entire industry), cultural entrepreneurship is more personalized in its approach. And that’s where artists come into play. 



“It’s often said that ‘social entrepreneurship’ changes markets and systems, while ‘creative entrepreneurship’ changes hearts and minds,” he says. “They’re not mutually exclusive.”



“Entrepreneurism in the Arts: A Call to Action in ROC” is the second in a six-part series, designed to explore how artists can use venture-based solutions to maximize their cultural and economic impact. 



DeGuzman describes the series as highly collaborative, featuring a mix of lectures and panel discussions. In addition to Nerenhausen and Rodriguez (the latter of whom was recently honored by the Harlem Arts Alliance), panelists include Joseph F. Eddy, vice president of WinnDevelopment in Rochester; Douglas Rice, founder of Rochester’s ARTWalk; Brian O’Neill, a Rochester-based artist and creative workshop faculty member of the Memorial Art Gallery; and Robert Doucette, co-founder and partner of Paramount Realty Group and president of Armory Development & Management in Syracuse. 



“These kinds of symposia are ideal for not only our students, but also civic leaders, at large,” Nerenhausen says. “Much of what will be discussed is also applicable to the City of Syracuse and Central New York. I am excited—and honored—to have a seat at the table.”