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Two Atlanta-based organizations launch initiative equipping entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, and specialized training for sustainable growth
ATLANTA, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sage Foundation, the social impact arm of Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), has launched a new, three-year partnership with Atlanta-based Village Capital to support 165 impact-creating startups across Europe, UK, and the U.S.
Atlanta’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem provides the perfect opportunity for this transformative initiative, highlighting Sage’s commitment to investing in the city and amplifying the voices of its dynamic business community. Sage’s North American headquarters in Atlanta plays a key role in the program’s mission to empower underrepresented business leaders, particularly those outside traditional tech hubs, by providing them with the mentorship, funding, and tools they need to succeed.
The Sage Impact Entrepreneurship Program aims to empower 55 under-represented business leaders globally, supporting approximately 25 US businesses, each year through tailored mentoring, product support, grants, and strategic training. Together, Sage Foundation and Village Capital will champion purpose-driven startups, fostering growth for under-represented founders who are committed to making positive social, economic, and environmental impact in their communities.
Village Capital’s mission aligns seamlessly with Sage Foundation’s commitment to equip small and mid-sized businesses with the skills, technology, and capital needed to thrive in order to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy. The non-profit is on a mission to unlock social and financial capital for impact-creating entrepreneurs located outside traditional tech hubs, and without access to established power and financial networks. To date, Village Capital has supported close to 1,800 startups from over 70 countries and has made more than 150 investments through its various affiliated funds.
“Sage has deep roots in Atlanta, and this partnership represents a significant next step in Sage Foundation’s journey,” said Cadence Willis, VP of Sage Foundation. “Since 2015, we’ve been committed to creating equal access to skills, growth and entrepreneurship, and now, we are excited to be scaling our activity in partnership with Village Capital – a pioneer based in Atlanta - their expertise makes them the ideal partner for us to build a truly equitable entrepreneurial landscape.”
Allie Burns, CEO of Village Capital, said: “We’ve seen how critical tech can be to drive growth for small businesses -- that’s why our partnership with Sage, a tech leader used by millions of businesses across the world, is key to providing much-needed support to underserved entrepreneurs. Our work will help ensure that all entrepreneurs get the support they deserve – not just those that belong to certain communities or that are based in major business and tech centres.”