ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Georgia-Pacific believes that self-sufficiency and economic empowerment are two indispensable elements of a very 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. Programs that help a student transition from a classroom environment to a real working business model are of particular interest.
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 educational programs for youth, we also support organizations that 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 operating 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."
Morehouse College Youth Entrepreneurship Summer Camp (YES)
Morehouse College Entrepreneurship Center (MCEC) and the Georgia-Pacific Foundation have collaborated to create the 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.