Opportunity - taken to new heights
The Mentor Protégé Connection is a business development partnership between the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), The Georgia Institute of Technology, and the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC). Emerging firms who are accepted into the program have an opportunity to make tremendous strides in areas such as business acumen, methods and procedures, competitiveness and capability. The ultimate goal of the MPC is to create jobs and spur economic growth throughout the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) through building the capacity of small business firms.
2016- Protégé Application
Once a firm has been nominated as a candidate for admission into the Mentor Protégé Connection, the application process begins. The applicant must submit a complete packet, containing all of the required documentation, on or before the application deadline – no exceptions. The application process is rigorous by design, as the candidate must demonstrate the characteristics necessary to be eligible for such a life-changing business opportunity. This process also insures a worthwhile experience for our mentors.

Welcome to the Mentor Protégé Connection (MPC)!

The Georgia Mentor Protégé Connection (MPC) is a business development program administered by the Georgia Education Foundation (GEF) in partnership with the Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Institute of Technology. MPC provides opportunities for Georgia small businesses to benefit from a partnership with a corporate mentor for a period of one year. Emerging firms can build relationships, explore new technologies, learn about best practices, and benefit from the wisdom of corporate executives who are committed to the long-term health and overall growth of small businesses in Georgia. The goal of the program is to help small businesses to be successful over the long haul by helping them to develop capacity, enhance their skill sets, and become more competitive. Research has shown that access to the right kind of coaching and mentoring significantly increases the success rate in small business, while both the mentor and the protégé benefit tremendously from their interaction.

Small business candidates must submit an application to be considered for the program and are screened according to a set of admissions criteria. If selected, a protégé firm is paired with a large corporate mentor to focus on such areas as:

1. New markets and global expansion
2. New products, services, and lines of business
3. Professional development and training

4. Relationship building, governmental affairs, and networking
5. Operations and systems, including HR, IT, telecommunications, security, and logistics

6. Financial best practices, such as accounting, billing, and investor relations
7. Industry trends and strategic planning

The Georgia Mentor Protégé Connection (MPC) is a business development program administered by the Georgia Education Foundation (GEF) in partnership with the Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Institute of Technology. Administrative support is provided by many of Georgia’s leading corporations.

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Building Stronger Businesses: The Impact of Georgia’s Mentor Protégé Connection
March 28, 2025 Business

Building Stronger Businesses: The Impact of Georgia’s Mentor Protégé Connection

For small businesses, growth isn’t just about increasing revenue; it’s about sustainability, scalability, and continuous improvement. The Georgia Mentor Protégé Connection (MPC) plays a crucial role in ensuring small businesses get the mentorship they need to achieve these goals. By partnering small businesses with experienced corporate leaders, MPC fosters an environment where knowledge, skills, and […]

The Power of Mentorship: How MPC Transforms Small Businesses in Georgia
March 28, 2025 Business

The Power of Mentorship: How MPC Transforms Small Businesses in Georgia

Small businesses face many challenges, from limited resources to tough competition. The Georgia Mentor Protégé Connection (MPC) is a game-changing initiative designed to help small businesses in Georgia overcome these obstacles. Administered by the Georgia Education Foundation (GEF) in partnership with the Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Institute of Technology, MPC provides one-year […]