Contribution supports entrepreneur training, signature programming and expanded access to mentorship and supplier networks
DULUTH, Ga. — Oct. 1, 2026 — Lawrenceville Coca-Cola has contributed $3,000 to the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation, expanding its support for programs that help small businesses build capacity, strengthen leadership, and gain greater access to growth opportunities.
Of the contribution, $2,000 supported the Golf Clinic at the Foundation’s recent Rock the Range fundraiser, while an additional $1,000 will support the Foundation’s Power of Impact and Honoring Legacies & Empowering Leaders signature programs.
The investment comes as the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation continues to expand programming centered on education, mentorship, technical assistance and connections that help small businesses grow and scale.
“Corporate partners like Lawrenceville Coca-Cola help us move beyond talking about small business growth and put meaningful resources behind it,” said Deirdra Cox, executive director of the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation. “Their investment supports the training, mentorship and access entrepreneurs need to strengthen their businesses and position themselves for opportunities that can take them to the next level.”
Alton Rutledge of Lawrenceville Coca-Cola added, “We see this as an investment in the businesses and entrepreneurs that contribute to the strength of our community. Supporting the Foundation gives us an opportunity not only to contribute financially, but also to share knowledge, build relationships and help small businesses better understand how to prepare for opportunities within larger supplier networks.”
The partnership will continue beyond the contribution. The Foundation and Lawrenceville Coca-Cola United will build on their relationship through mentor-protégé engagement focused on procurement, training and supplier-network opportunities for small businesses.
The Foundation’s next signature program, the Power of Impact Gala, will take place December 15 at the Buford Community Center, bringing established business and community leaders together with entrepreneurs for a celebration of small business success.
As the Foundation continues its work with Coca-Cola, stories from the mentor-protégé relationship will be shared through the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation’s social media channels, offering a closer look at procurement, training and supplier-network opportunities and the role corporate partners can play in helping small businesses prepare for sustainable growth. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn as the details unfold.
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