Investing Early

I have previously written about investing in Early County. I felt the need to expand upon this topic through a very specific example that will help guide our community more appropriately, especially when it comes to being proactive regarding our future workforce.

The Development Authority of Early County is leading the way and providing an avenue for Early County’s young entrepreneurs. The Georgia FLEX (Foundational Leadership and Entrepreneurship Experience) program gives high school students the opportunity to engage with the business world by developing a business, which provides a real product or service.

Students compete at the local and state level for the chance to win “seed” money to kickstart his or her business. This program is a fantastic opportunity for the students and the community. It provides a very tangible way for individuals, businesses and organizations to effectively support and get involved with our future business leaders.

These partnerships between the local economy and school systems provide a beneficial pathway for workforce development. When the community invests in students, they are more likely to remain local when entering the workforce. It demonstrates to the students that the community supports them and wants to see them succeed. Young entrepreneurs who participate in FLEX are better prepared to enter the workforce because the program teaches them basic soft skills, along with foundational business and leadership skills that employers look for in quality employees.

Overall, it’s a program that benefits the entire community – including local businesses and economic development.

It provides structure geared towards enhancing workforce development, increasing entrepreneurship and advertising opportunities. There are also indirect benefits that communities greatly need. Since its beginning in 2022, FLEX has proven to result in optimism for the future, team work, overall greater community morale and increased involvement in our school systems. I can foresee this program being a massive morale booster for Early County.

If we really want Early County to succeed, we’ve got to prepare for its future. This is an avenue that has presented itself for us to do just that. I encourage you to visit www.developearly.com to learn more about how you can support Early County’s future workforce by investing in the Early FLEX program.

To help support the program (Any amount is greatly appreciated!): CLICK HERE.

Published in the Early County News on June 3 2025.