Entrepreneurs Get Busy On Next Wave Of Innovation

A tech summit Wednesday and other events this month reflect growing activity among entrepreneurs, who see themselves as a positive force to get out of the recession.

The conference, sponsored by Xconomy.com, wants to fuel the next wave of innovation and job growth. Also this month, a new mentoring program for entrepreneurs called TechStars launched in Boston. Industry watcher Scott Kirsner said the recent flurry of activity is a reaction to the downturn.

"I just think we’re in the middle of a painful shift in the economy where suddenly businesses aren’t growing any more and they’re laying people off," Kirsner said. "But there are areas of growth. I know I talk to people every week that say, 'Yeah, actually we have 10 open jobs that we’re having trouble filling.’"

Another event at Boston University on Thursday is geared to help workers who want to change their careers and move to a higher tech industry.