A recent analysis of Inc. 500 data shows that high-growth firms are thriving in regions throughout the U.S., not just in Silicon Valley, Boston and New York. That point is illustrated through Global Entrepreneurship Week by a number of cities and regions--here we take a look at Kalamazoo, Michigan.

This year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week in Kalamazoo will be led by Startup Zoo, a group of tech entrepreneurs dedicated to building and supporting a community of technology entrepreneurs in Kalamazoo.

The following list was pulled from Southwest Michigan’s Second Wave, an online magazine focusing on growth, innovation and investment in the region. Thanks to Kathy Jennings, Second Wave’s media writer for Kalamazoo’s GEW schedule:

Mentor Mixer (Nov. 12)

The mixer provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to engage with mentors in the community. There will be over 20 mentors from all different industries including software, bio-tech, retail, food, venture capital, and many more. If you're an entrepreneur, now is your chance to work one on one with mentors in your industry and find some answers to your most pressing issues.

Startup Tour (Nov. 13)

From food trucks to iOS developers, the walking tour through downtown Kalamazoo will take look at some of Kalamazoo’s newest companies. This event is limited to 20 people so register early with Startup Zoo.

Founders Breakfast (Nov. 14)

The breakfast is an opportunity for entrepreneurs and community leaders to discuss the Kalamazoo startup community. If you’re an entrepreneur interested in being a part of this discussion, and getting to know local founders, please apply for this special event.

While this event is free, it’s limited to 10 people. Startup Zoo will be accepting applications shortly.

Pitch Practice (Nov. 15)

Five companies will have the opportunity to practice their pitches and receive feedback from successful entrepreneurs and investors. General networking, giving attendees the opportunity to mix and mingle, will follow the event.

Entrepreneurship Awards (Nov. 16)

Awards in five categories will be given out for local startups. If you would like to nominate a company for any of these awards, please use the form from Startup Zoo. Nominations will close on November 4th, and crowd based voting for each category will take place the week of November 5th.

To get involved in GEW Kalamazoo and register for events, please visit the Startup Zoo website or follow Startup Zoo on Twitter (@startupzoo) and on Facebook.

[Photo Credit: Paladin27]

tags: gew, GEWUSA, kalamazoo, michigan, Startup Zoo