Funds raised would be used to outfit classrooms and purchase equipment for a new initiative – the Center for Culinary and Hospitality Innovation, which moves education to where the opportunities and the people who need them most are located. The college has partnered with The Furman Company to meet workforce needs within the growing restaurant and hospitality industry that defines Greenville’s downtown while bringing opportunity and pathways for economic mobility to people living nearby who may be underprepared for these careers. The new center, coming in 2020 to Poe West on Perry Avenue, will allow people to quickly prepare for jobs or to add credentials that will lead to promotions. It is expected that the project will play a strong role in transforming West Greenville while giving those who live there a way to achieve economic prosperity.

The CrowdRise effort continues through Friday, April 12. At the end of the crowdfunding period, an additional 16 grants totaling $800,000 will be awarded to participating organizations. To assist the Greenville Tech Foundation in this effort, please go to https://www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/greenville-tech-foundation-south-carolina. There are options to donate, join our team, or share the link.