Description of Milken Institute Video: The Mideast’s New Resource: Entrepreneurs
Christopher Schroeder, author of “Startup Rising”
Moderated by Jonathan Spalter, chairman of Mobile Future
November 11, 2013
4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
Santa Monica

Amid the chaotic politics and widespread privation in the Arab world, a passionate cohort of entrepreneurs is striving to bring jobs, diversified economies and a culture of enterprise to the region. Christopher Schroeder spotlights their aspirations and achievements in “Startup Rising: The Entrepreneurial Revolution Remaking the Middle East.” Himself an entrepreneur, financier and member of the tech cognoscenti, Schroeder sees much cause for optimism as home-grown talent cross-pollinates with the venture investors and leading global technology firms that have made sizable commitments there, including Google, Cisco Systems and LinkedIn.

At this Milken Institute Forum, the author will describe the entrepreneurial landscape in a range of Middle East nations. He’ll explain how these intrepid and inventive trailblazers are overcoming the barriers they face, and how their efforts could transform the region’s place in the world. Expert observers have lauded Schroeder’s book for “shattering our stereotypes of the Middle East” and “brilliantly demonstrating that peace and prosperity is attainable for the region.”