Washington, D.C. (November 21, 2024) – 2Gether-International (2GI), a leading 501(c)(3) non-profit and startup accelerator run by and for entrepreneurs with disabilities, is thrilled to announce its partnership with PayPal to introduce a skills-based mentorship program during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), set to take place November 21, 2024.

PayPal employees will provide one-on-one guidance to entrepreneurs with disabilities in critical areas such as legal, talent acquisition, product testing, finance, and more. Founders will be equipped with practical advice tailored to their respective business needs and goals. All sessions will be conducted virtually to maximize accessibility for all participants.

This mentorship program is an extension of 2GI’s reception of the 2024 PayPal Community Impact Grant. Each year, PayPal employees select local charities in their communities that align with the company’s mission of revolutionizing commerce globally by expanding economic opportunity for all. The selected organizations receive grant funding, volunteer support from PayPal employee volunteers, and pro bono resources to help extend the impact of the award. 

"PayPal is proud to partner with 2GI on initiatives that elevate the voices and ventures of disabled founders. Supporting entrepreneurs at all stages of their business journey is integral to our mission of revolutionizing commerce globally," said Kenrick Fraser, Global Lead of Community Impact and Partnerships at PayPal. "Through skills-based mentoring, pro bono resources, and employee volunteer, we are empowering our employees to foster inclusion, break down barriers, and create pathways for all entrepreneurs to thrive in the global economy."

Thw mentoring initiative aligns with 2GI’s mission of fostering entrepreneurial success by connecting innovative Disabled Founders with experienced corporate professionals. In addition to PayPal, 2GI collaborates with corporate giants such as Comcast NBCUniversal, JPMorgan Chase, Google.org, and AWS on various programs and initiatives.

The Global Entrepreneurship Week mentorship program is just the beginning of 2GI and PayPal’s collaborative efforts. Their upcoming programming includes presentations from senior PayPal executives for founders with disabilities in 2GI’s network, as well as a mentorship event coinciding with International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2024. These initiatives aim to create a platform of continuous education and resources for entrepreneurs with disabilities.

"By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs with disabilities and experienced professionals, we’re not just offering guidance; we’re cultivating a dynamic community where creativity and collaboration drive success," said Diego Mariscal, CEO and Founder of 2Gether-International. "Together, we are transforming the entrepreneurial landscape for Disabled Founders, and our partnership with PayPal plays a critical role in achieving these goals."

2GI has a proven track record of equipping people with disabilities with the tools and resources they need to become leaders in their respective industries. Since 2019, the organization’s Cohorts for startup founders with disabilities have supported over 80 businesses, which have collectively raised approximately $70 million in investment, revenue, and acquisitions from external investors.

About 2Gether-International (2GI):
2Gether-International is the leading startup accelerator run by and for entrepreneurs with disabilities. 2GI supports high-growth, high-impact startups led by founders with disabilities, showcasing disability as a competitive advantage for businesses. Learn more about 2GI and their accelerator program here: https://2Gether-International.org

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About PayPal:

PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. The company creates innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure. PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://about.pypl.com/

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