ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Georgia-Pacific believes that self-sufficiency and economic empowerment are two indispensable elements of every strong community. Entrepreneurs are often the catalysts of these essential components. That is why the foundation believes that to create long-term value in GP communities, we must identify and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit, especially among our youth.

The foundation partners with local elementary schools, high schools and universities that encourage and inspire a student's entrepreneurial spirit and offer incentives such as accreditation and/or certificate programs. We are particularly interested in programs that help a student transition from a classroom environment to a real working business model.

We've also enthusiastically supported programs that teach practical economic principles, the benefits of a free enterprise system, and real-world business skills to workers of any age. We realize that student entrepreneurs, when nurtured and developed, become adult entrepreneurs, creating value and free markets. So, in addition to supporting youth entrepreneur programs, we also support organizations that help build capacity in small, minority or women owned businesses.

Youth Entrepreneurs® Atlanta (YE-Atl)

Youth Entrepreneurs® Atlanta (YE-Atl) is a privately funded business program hosted in public high schools. It teaches students free-enterprise fundamentals through hands-on learning activities, including a final project of writing and presenting a workable business plan based on their original concepts. YE-Atl students learn about different types of businesses and the many aspects of running a business. The goal of the program is to spark student interest in owning their own business or creating value as an employee by "thinking like an owner." YE-Atl's role is to reveal avenues of opportunity for young people who dare to dream.

Morehouse College Youth Entrepreneurship Summer Camp (YES)

Morehouse College Entrepreneurship Center (MCEC) and the Georgia-Pacific Foundation have collaborated to create "YES" Camp, where young adults learn about entrepreneurship, personal responsibility and the benefits of free market enterprise. Students learn economic thinking skills, practice creative, intelligent risk-taking and gain practical business experience.

Usher's Camp New Look

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation and popular American R&B artist, Usher, collaborated to bring 150 middle and high school students to Usher's Camp New Look held at Georgia Tech Institute. Ranging in age from 8-18, participants came from all across the U.S. to attend workshops on sports, music, dance and how to run a business in the entertainment industry.

National Black MBA Leaders of Tomorrow

Georgia-Pacific works to ensure its commitment to the community is demonstrated beyond grants and financial support. We also maximize our resources by supporting programs like The National Black MBA Leaders of Tomorrow, a national network of high school students and MBA professionals who focus on mentoring and student empowerment.