GrowForward: Fuel the Future of Georgia’s Small Business Community
For 50 years, the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC) and its educational nonprofit arm, the Georgia Education Foundation (GEF), have been at the forefront of advancing opportunity, building bridges between small businesses and corporate supply chains, and strengthening the economic fabric of communities across the state.
The GrowForward Campaign is the next step in this journey. With a goal of raising $100,000 by the end of the year, this campaign invests directly into Georgia’s small businesses—fueling their growth, expanding their capacity, and empowering them with the resources, mentorship, and training needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Why GrowForward Matters
Small businesses are the backbone of Georgia’s economy. They create jobs, drive innovation and nurture thriving communities. But in order to scale and compete, they need more than opportunity—they need access to mentorship, advanced training, capital and a network of support.
GrowForward is designed to meet those needs head-on. The campaign channels philanthropic support into targeted, high-impact programs that strengthen small businesses from the inside out. By investing in GrowForward, you are helping entrepreneurs build capacity, deepen their competency, and enhance their capability—so they can meet growing demands and lead in their industries.
Where Your Investment Goes
Every dollar raised through the GrowForward Campaign is directed toward proven, high-impact programs operated through the Georgia Education Foundation.
Johnnie T. Booker Scholarship
Named in honor of a trailblazing advocate for education and opportunity, this scholarship provides small business leaders with access to executive training at world-class institutions, including the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Participants sharpen their strategic, financial, and operational skills—equipping them to lead sustainable growth, pursue major contracts, and build resilient companies.
Georgia Mentor Protégé Connection (GMPC)
Launched in partnership with the State of Georgia, the GMPC has been a cornerstone of business development for over two decades. Since GMSDC assumed leadership of the program, more than 400 small businesses have been mentored, paired with seasoned corporate executives who guide them through capacity building, operational excellence, and market expansion. GMPC has produced measurable results—graduating firms that have gone on to generate billions in revenue and secure long-term partnerships with some of the nation’s largest corporations.
Community Business Development Program (CBDP)
The CBDP takes mentorship and training deeper into communities across Georgia. Through workshops, coaching, and hands-on development, CBDP helps entrepreneurs address their unique challenges, build internal systems, and position themselves for growth. With GrowForward support, we will expand CBDP’s reach statewide, bringing critical programming to underserved regions and business owners who need it most.
Campaign Goal & Timeline
Our goal is to raise $100,000 by December 31. These funds will be used throughout the year to directly support small businesses, expand signature programs, and extend our impact to communities statewide.
Every contribution matters. Whether you give $50 or $50,000, your support fuels the programs that strengthen businesses and communities across Georgia.
Join Us — Let’s GrowForward Together
For 50 years, our community has been building pathways for small businesses to thrive. Now, as we honor our legacy and shape the future, we invite you to be part of this next chapter.
By contributing to GrowForward, you’re not just giving—you’re investing. You’re fueling the growth of local businesses, empowering the next generation of leaders and helping to build a stronger Georgia for everyone.
Give generously. Invest boldly. Help us reach our $100,000 goal by December 31.