Brookings businessmen and women especially those who have started or are considering starting their own businesses are being invited to participate in an evening networking session that will focus on entrepreneurial development .

Planned for this Thursday, Nov. 5, at the Innovation Campus, the event will be hosted by the Brookings Business Network Committee, a revival of the Brookings Entrepreneur Network.

That group, says meeting organizer Teresa McKnight, represents a partnership that includes the SDSU Innovation Campus, Brookings Economic Development Corporation, Enterprise Institute, Small Business Development Center, SDSU Technology Transfer Office and South Dakota Innovation Partners, a venture capital firm.

"The committee has interest in growing the level of entrepreneurial activity," Knight said, "and we're extending an invitation to business and research entrepreneurs to make connections and share ideas and best practices ."

The no-charge event is open to existing business owners, entrepreneurs , community leaders and those interested in local business development , said Knight, who is also CEO and executive director of the Innovation Campus.

McKnight said the gathering will be an excellent opportunity for business owners and those planning startups to learn about the resources available to them in the community.

"It will be a good time for entrepreneurs to meet one another, share some of the chal lenges they've faced in starting a business, or perhaps discuss legislation and regulations that could affect their businesses."

McKnight said there is no formal program, but there will be a brief introduction and information presentation.

Future networking sessions have already been scheduled, the next to take place Dec. 3. The program will continue with monthly get-togethers .

This week's networking night will be at the SDSU Innovation Center, 2301 Research Park Way, Brookings. The program runs from 5:30-7 p.m.

Those who wish to attend are asked to notify Sheri Miller at sheri.miller@sdstate.edu or by calling her at 696-5600 no later than 5 p.m. Wednesday.