The UPS Store, Inc. Empowers the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs with Sizeable Donation to Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida

FORT MYERS, Fla. – January 2, 2025 – Recently, The UPS Store, Inc. announced a donation of $2.9 million to Junior Achievement USA through its Start Small, Grow Big program – an initiative designed to support aspiring small business owners and entrepreneurs. Locally, the Junior Achievement of SWFL received $15,427.90 from that donation to support programs for entrepreneurial programs in high school.

Customers at more than 5,200 The UPS Store locations helped to nearly double the previous year’s contribution, underscoring the company’s dedication to shaping a brighter future for young individuals.

A recent survey by Junior Achievement USA found that three in four teens would likely consider becoming an entrepreneur. Still, they need more information on how to be successful. One-third of teens surveyed also expressed they would need a role model who is a business owner for guidance. To help bridge this gap, The UPS Store Start Small, Grow Big program supports Junior Achievement USA® programs nationwide, enabling students to receive lessons in financial literacy, work and career readiness, hands-on entrepreneurship modules, and mentoring.

“It is an honor to show our commitment to the small business owners of today and tomorrow in such a powerful and actionable way,” said Sarah Casalan Bittle, President, The UPS Store, Inc. “Our Start Small, Grow Big program provides opportunities for school-aged children to learn practical life and business skills that will give them the confidence to excel in their personal and professional lives.”

The steps to donate to the program are easy and quick for UPS Store customers. After purchasing products and services at The UPS Store, such as packing, shipping, printing marketing materials, and shredding documents, customers can opt to help support the next generation of entrepreneurs by simply donating upon checkout at any UPS Store location in the U.S. (https://www.theupsstore.com/tools/find-a-store). Start Small, Grow Big supporters can donate online through the Junior Achievement website.

“We are beyond grateful to The UPS Store network and their Start Small, Grow Big program for their transformative contribution,” said Angela Fisher, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida. “This generous investment significantly contributes to the mission of our organization and our goal of supporting young people who are exploring starting their own business in the future. With The UPS Store network’s support, we can equip young minds with the tools they need to thrive in an evolving entrepreneurial landscape.”

Visit https://www.theupsstore.com/startsmall for more information about the Start Small, Grow Big program.