What is the Georgia Tech Founder's Pledge?

The Georgia Tech Founder's Pledge is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to make a nonbinding commitment to give back to Georgia Tech when they attain success. Alumni who make the Founder's Pledge have full control over the timing, amount, and designation of their gift; support can be directed to any unit or program on campus, and does not need to be determined until the time the gift is made. Making the Pledge is an easy, rewarding way to join a family of successful Georgia Tech entrepreneurs who’ve publicly signaled their support of their alma mater from the earliest days of their business ventures.

How does it work?

Simply complete the pledge form on this site. When the timing is right for you — typically, after your company’s exit or steady revenue growth — our team can help arrange your gift to the university.

Why would I want to do this?

When you make a commitment to Georgia Tech as part of the Founder's Pledge program, you join an exceptional community of alumni who have a passion for Georgia Tech’s mission. You have the satisfaction of making philanthropic goals an integral part of your business success.

Is there a minimum dollar amount for my future contribution?

No; every gift to Georgia Tech is deeply appreciated and enhances our ability to offer a world-class education and conduct globally impactful research and scholarship. But while annual giving is encouraged among all alumni, fulfillment of your Founder's Pledge commitment is intended to be a “stretch” gift, marking a notable milestone in your entrepreneurial journey. Your gift should be personally significant, guided by your unique situation and your goals for the impact you want to have at Georgia Tech.

Can I designate my pledge to any school, college, unit, or program on campus?

Yes, you may direct your gift to any area of campus. Our team can work with you to identify areas or topics that mean the most to you and help you explore your philanthropic goals over time. Georgia Tech Founder's Pledge gifts can support existing initiatives and even help the university create entirely new programs.

What are the tax ramifications?

There are no tax ramifications associated with making the Pledge; tax considerations come into play when you make your gift, just as with any charitable contribution. All gifts to Georgia Tech are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.

Who has made the Founder's Pledge?

Founder's Pledge members are entrepreneurs who have started a company, or other early-stage employees or C-suite executives who hold equity in one. The Founder's Pledge group is a special family of current and/or future donors who appreciate the opportunity to be mindful and forward-thinking in their philanthropy toward Georgia Tech.

Do other universities have such pledges?

Yes, the University of California-Berkeley, Northwestern University, Babson College, and Michigan State University are all examples of other schools that have similar pledges by their entrepreneurial alumni.

How do I get more information?

Don’t hesitate to email us at create-x@gatech.edu. We are happy to answer any additional questions you might have about the Georgia Tech Founder's Pledge and/or how it might work with your unique, personal situation.