3 Ways Entrepreneurship Education Can Elevate Economically-Challenged Communities

I have believed for a long time that entrepreneurship education could be used as a strategic empowerment tool to lift up those in poverty-stricken communities. I’m very excited to see social entrepreneurship strategies being used all over the world to elevate people and communities out of their financial and social distress. Unfortunately, I don’t often see the same entrepreneurial energy and intentionality utilized here in the United States to help those who are challenged will lack of access to resources and tools that can help create new avenues of economic opportunity.

Entrepreneurship education is just as valid a poverty-smashing solution in urban communities in the U.S. as they are in slums in India or villages in Africa. Even more, when entrepreneurship education is paired with Biblical principles, you have the makings of people who are not just skilled as businesspeople, they also develop the morals and character to operate a business that’s profitable and positively impacts others.

Here are three practical ways entrepreneurship education can elevate economically-challenged communities:

1. Sense of Ownership: Embedded within an entrepreneurial mindset is a sense of ownership. Entrepreneurs who operate businesses within a community usually have a heightened desire to take accountability for what happens in that community, because they know they need that community to succeed if their business is going to be sustainable.
2. Sense of Purpose: Without a revelation of their purpose and significance, people cast off restraint and run wild (Proverbs 29:18 NIV). When people have no sense of purpose, they lose hope and stop caring about themselves and the people around them. Entrepreneurship education helps ignite the purpose in people to pursue something greater than what they may see around them everyday. Entrepreneurship education is an incredible platform to transport people from where they are to their God-ordained destiny.
3. Creative Energy: People in poverty-stricken areas don’t lack creativity, they are just using their creative abilities far below the purpose for which God created them. Entrepreneurship empowerment can help people use their ingenuity beyond just basic survival or even criminal pursuits. Creative energy that wasn’t being used previously or being used for the wrong things are now channeled in a positive, beneficial direction for themselves and others.

We’re on a mission to stimulate the creation of 1 million jobs. If you want to learn more about how we’re using entrepreneurship education to elevate urban and rural communities, check out The (Un)Employment Alternative. We’re raising money right now to bring entrepreneurship education to Cedartown, GA so we can create jobs, restore hope, and revitalize that community. We need your help. Please partner with us today!

What do you think? How can entrepreneurship education help your city or community?

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in the marketplace!

Your true life does not have to be only a dream, it can be a dream manifested in 3D! Learn how to Discover, Define, and Drive your desires by unleashing the God given muse to help you envision yourself in a B.I.G. way. God designed you for greatness so stop dreaming small. Uncover your legacy. Now is the season for a Bold Innovative God-Inspired Life! You owe it to yourself to see just how far your true dream in life can take you.

KBU Partners with Local Community to Launch Innovative Jobs Program

What is The (Un)Employment Alternative?

This is Kingdom Business University’s (KBU) ambitious plan to stimulate the creation of 1 million jobs through faith-based, purpose-centered entrepreneurship education. We are starting in Cedartown, GA. Help us today at www.theunemploymentalternative.com.

The Impact
The vision of the Coalition of Concerned Citizens of Cedartown, GA – a diverse group including pastors, entrepreneurs, social workers, and city officials – is to use entrepreneurship education as a catalyst to bring social and economic empowerment back to a region that is challenged with crime, unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities. They have partnered with Kingdom Business University to provide entrepreneurship classes that will restore hope, launch new businesses, create jobs, and catalyze new opportunities for the unemployed, ex-offenders, and youth who have been unable to find viable work and sustainable income sources.

What We Need & What You Get
Our goal is to raise $2500 on IndieGogo, which will pay for the first 30 participants. The more we raise the more people and can teach. Our desire is to offer this program at a minimal financial cost to the participants, although they will be asked to invest in this opportunity in other ways, such as community service. The amount will go towards:curriculum, facilities, supplies, and other related expenses. Additional funds will also be applied toward establishing a business incubator that will provide on-going support to graduates.

We have some great perks for those who contribute at the $25, $100, and $250 levels. Just look to column on the right side of this page www.theunemploymentalternative.com ▶

Other Ways You Can Help
This project is just the beginning. We aspire to help communities around this country implement their own economic recovery plan. In addition to your donations, help us spread the word. We are more than willing to come to your city, community, or church to talk about this innovative program and how we can create a customized version for your city.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in the marketplace!

Your true life does not have to be only a dream, it can be a dream manifested in 3D! Learn how to Discover, Define, and Drive your desires by unleashing the God given muse to help you envision yourself in a B.I.G. way. God designed you for greatness so stop dreaming small. Uncover your legacy. Now is the season for a Bold Innovative God-Inspired Life! You owe it to yourself to see just how far your true dream in life can take you.

Choose Your Price for Dream B.I.G. in 3D!

I am very excited to make 2 very “B.I.G.” announcements today. The first is that for a limited time I am selling my book Dream B.I.G. in 3D available for the price you choose to pay. Proceeds from your donations will go towards faith based, purpose centered entrepreneurship training programs for the unemployed, such as S.E.E.D.S. Builders. I am so passionate and committed to seeing people’s lives changed that I’m willing to take this risk. So whether you have $1, $10, or $100, we will gladly accept what you choose to invest in the lives of those who need help the most right now.

My other B.I.G. announcement is that Dream B.I.G. in 3D is now available as an ebook. So whether you have a Kindle, iPad, Nook, Sony, Kobo, or just about anything else, you can get this ebook for only $4.99. Just go to www.dreambigebook.com to order it today and you will be helping to rebuild people, families, and communities through faith based entrepreneurship empowerment.

2 Corinthians 9:10-11 speaks clearly about the incredible benefits of investing your resources into somebody’s life:

“Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”

Even if you don’t want it for yourself, purchase this book for someone you know who needs insight into their purpose, encouragement for their journey, or ignition for their passion. Make a B.I.G. difference in somebody’s life today.

Thanks in advance for your support!

Thrive on purpose!

Paul Wilson, Jr.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in the marketplace!

Your true life does not have to be only a dream, it can be a dream manifested in 3D! Learn how to Discover, Define, and Drive your desires by unleashing the God given muse to help you envision yourself in a B.I.G. way. God designed you for greatness so stop dreaming small. Uncover your legacy. Now is the season for a Bold Innovative God-Inspired Life! You owe it to yourself to see just how far your true dream in life can take you.

If you are looking for purpose in your life and life in your purpose, this is the perfect book for you. Get your copy today at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.

What Would Jesus Occupy?

Last week Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council in Washington, wrote an op-ed piece on CNN.com, entitled My Take: Jesus was a Free Marketer Not an Occupier. While I agree with some of his points about how Jesus’ parable in Luke 19 relates to a free market economy, Jesus also emphatically confronted those with power and influence who were greedy and took advantage of the less fortunate. One example is the account of how he dealt with the cheating businessmen, also found in Luke 19.

So whose side does Jesus really stand on, the 1% or the 99%? I believe we can find a clue in Joshua 3:13-15. Joshua was about the lead the nation of Israel into a battle with Jericho when he has an interesting encounter with someone whose affiliation and intentions are not initially obvious…

“When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him with his drawn sword in his hand. And Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us, or for our adversaries?” And he said, “No; but I am the commander of the army of the LORD. Now I have come.” ~ Joshua 3:13-14

From this example, we can see that God has an  approach to our situations that exceeds our human understanding, perspectives, and agendas (Isaiah 55:8-9). I believe Jesus would probably have some choice words for “Free Marketers” and “Occupiers”. He would challenge the Free Marketers to make money, but not to serve it. Instead they should their money to serve God’s purposes, which would include “helping widows and orphans” (James 1:27).

He would also challenge the Occupiers to appreciate and maximize what they have, just like the little boy with the small lunch of two fish and five loaves of bread (Mark 6:41). Contentment and thankfulness create an environment for God’s grace to provide more than enough for you and those you want to impact (Philippians 4:19).

The truth is Jesus died for the in the 1% and the in the 99%. He cares more about both of our eternal destinies then our earthly differences. However, he will use our earthly differences as learning and growing opportunities to get us closer to realizing our eternal destinies.

What are your thoughts? Which side do you think Jesus stands on, the 1% or the 99%?

Thrive on purpose!

Paul Wilson, Jr.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in the marketplace!

Your true life does not have to be only a dream, it can be a dream manifested in 3D! Learn how to Discover, Define, and Drive your desires by unleashing the God given muse to help you envision yourself in a B.I.G. way. God designed you for greatness so stop dreaming small. Uncover your legacy. Now is the season for a Bold Innovative God-Inspired Life! You owe it to yourself to see just how far your true dream in life can take you.

If you are looking for purpose in your life and life in your purpose, this is the perfect book for you. Get your copy today at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.

Divine Inspiration for a Recession Recovery

God has given you creative potential to produce wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). One way this is expressed is through faith-based entrepreneurship. This could be the answer to helping our country get out of this economic mess.

Part 1 – Using entrepreneurship inspired by God to spark an economic recovery

Part 2 – Interview with a Christian entrepreneur living out his faith through his business

Thrive on Purpose,
Paul Wilson, Jr.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in the marketplace!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

The Unemployed Need New (Entrepreneurial) Alternatives

In the past few weeks the U.S. government has seemed to have taken its eyes off the unemployment plight of millions as it focuses more on the federal budget and national debt ceiling. While their attention has seemingly been drawn away during this time, the economy gained 75% fewer jobs between April and May.

I really don’t think the “experts” in the government or the private sector have a clue as to what to do to get the economy going again. I believe this problem is spiritual in nature that has produced the bad economic fruit that we’re eating right now; which means it will take divine intervention to get us out of this hole. God wants to get reintegrated as a priority back into the financial and economic affairs of this country, and not just as an afterthought to pray to Him to get us out of this mess.

There is an alternative to get people “working” again that addresses the spiritual and economic needs of people. It’s called S.E.E.D.S. for HOPE which provides biblically-based entrepreneurship training. More money, time, and energy needs to be invested into helping people build small and micro-businesses through entrepreneurship training, but it must be done in a way that honors God and not the “almighty” dollar. I believe innovative ideas, new markets, and financial opportunities will open up for Christian entrepreneurs when we reposition God on the throne of our lives and businesses.

Click here to learn more about S.E.E.D.S. for HOPE. Please join me in this quest to bring spiritually empowered economic development “soulutions” to our families and communities.

Fewer jobs for unemployed workers, posted with vodpod

‎Thrive on purpose,

Paul Wilson, Jr.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in 3D!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

This highly regarded book is a powerful tool to help you align your purpose, passions and professional skills. Learn more at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.

Dream B.I.G. in 3D Teaches Christians How to Maximize Your Purpose in the Marketplace

“The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.” ~ 1 Corinthians 3:8-9

Unfortunately, work challenges don’t just impact a person’s bank account. They also affects one’s confidence and clarity concerning their identity, purpose, and direction. My book Dream B.I.G. in 3D: How to Pursue a Bold, Innovative, God-Inspired Life! equips people with powerful inspiration and practical instructions to develop, discover, and drive to their God-given purpose, especially as it relates to your employment or entrepreneurship. Learn more at learn more at www.dreambigin3d.com.

If you are unemployed and looking for a new job or are sick of your current one, make sure you’re using the right search criteria for your next work opportunity – that is criteria based on God’s purpose for your life.

‎Thrive on purpose,

Paul Wilson, Jr.

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in 3D!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

This highly regarded book is a powerful tool to help you align your purpose, passions and professional skills. Learn more at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.

Fund the Fight Against Unemployment!

“He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” ~ 2 Corinthians 9:10

The last few years have been extremely challenging for just about everyone. Loss seems to be the theme of the recession. Each of us knows at least one person who lost a job, a house, a family, self-confidence, and even hope. All of these losses have threatened the viability and sustainability of individuals, families, churches, and our communities.

God has given me a vision to bring renewal and restoration to our communities – spiritually, economically, and socially. There can be no restoration without all three of these factors working together. The S.E.E.D.S. for HOPE Fund, which stands for Spiritually Empowered Economic Development and Sustainability Soulutions, was established to provide faith-based training and development for the unemployed, underemployed, and misemployed in our churches and communities. Learn more about our specific initiatives at www.3hrive.com.

My goal is to raise $50,000 by June 1, 2011. This includes curriculum, training facilities, support services, travel, and administrative costs. Please consider donating any amount great or small to spreading the good news to our churches and communities. You can donate using the button below. Everyone who donates at least $50 will receive a free copy of my book, “Dream B.I.G. in 3D: How to Pursue a Bold, Innovative, God-Inspired Life!”

Your donation will make a huge difference in accelerating the healing and restoration of many lives. Further, the eternal benefits attached to this vision are not only for those who will receive these services, but also for everyone enabling this vision to become a reality. And that prayerfully includes you.

Thrive on purpose,

Paul Wilson, Jr.

***********************

Fulfill your purpose in 3D!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

4 Keys to D.E.E.P. Living Video – Part 1

“And when Jesus finished speaking, he said to Peter, ‘Put out in the deep and let down your nets for a catch.’“ ~ Luke 5:4

This video is part of my Crusade vs Unemployment series. It contains key principles gleaned from Luke 5 for entrepreneurs and employees to “Advance to Abundance”. Enjoy!

What kinds of things are you doing to experience “DEEP” living?

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in 3D!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

This highly regarded book is a powerful tool to help you align your purpose, passions and professional skills. Learn more at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.

Youth in Revolt

When people are disrespected, disregarded, or dismissed for a long period of time, they eventually will do desperate things. I believe this is even more true with youth and young adults. In addition to the unrest currently happening in Egypt, over the past 18 months we have seen riots – often led by young and very passionate leaders - break out  in Tunisia, Iran, France, and other places.

I know there are a multitude of complicated factors that come into play with each of these countries. However one common thread in all of them is a sense of economic desperation. The opportunity to work gives young (and old) people a sense of dignity and the possibility of upward mobility. Without those opportunities the walls of poverty and despair seem close in and suffocate the hope out of people. Where there is no vision – hope for the future – people die from the inside out. Furthermore, youthful passion that is not channeled in a purposeful and positive direction will turn dangerous.

How does this relate to the U.S. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 51.1% of Americans between the ages of 16 and 24 years old were unemployed in July 2010. This marks the first time since 1948, when the government first started collecting this data, that less than half of all U.S. youth were employed in July. And this is not just an American problem. Check this out from the Wall Street Journal (April 14, 2010):

But rising youth unemployment is not just an American problem, points out  a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Across the 30 OECD countries, there are nearly 15 million unemployed workers aged 15-24 — four million more than at the end of 2007. In France and Italy, one in four young workers are unemployed; in Spain, 40% are jobless.

Youth unemployment is a global powderkeg that is just waiting for the right spark to turn a bad situation even worse, which we can see happening in Tunisia, Egypt, and other places around the world. The approaches world governments use to create jobs apparently are not working. I believe we need a greater emphasis on entrepreneurship in the U.S. and throughout the world. More focus, money, and education needs to be invested in entrepreneurship-based programs for younger and older unemployed workers.

We can no longer downplay the major roadblocks to success that the youth of this generation face today. Otherwise, the images that we see coming out of Egypt this week could be replayed in other countries around the world, and maybe even the United States.

What are some things you think could be done to alleviate youth unemployment?

*******************

Fulfill your purpose in 3D!

Are you aware that up to 97% of Christians surveyed disclose that they don’t hear sermons or messages that specifically connect their work life to their spiritual life? Are you one of them? If so, Dream B.I.G. in 3D will be the missing link for you to activate your gifts, find your niche, and fulfill God’s calling for you in the workplace.

This highly regarded book is a powerful tool to help you align your purpose, passions and professional skills. Learn more at www.DreamBIGin3D.com.