SEA is the fortunate recipient of a gift from the Soderquist family. Dr. Charles Soderquist joined the SEA Board in its second year and served for almost 15 years. He was the driving force behind developing the business plan process, as an addition to the student curriculum. Whenever called upon, Charlie spoke to the classes, invited them to his workplace, and was instrumental in bringing several speakers and Board members to the Academy. Chris Soderquist also joined the Board and served as Board President from 2001-2004. He has passionately advocated for the SEA in the Sacramento business community. Both Charlie and Chris Soderquist have left their mark on this organization. They have given their time, energy, leadership, and knowledge to help others who want to emulate their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Chris Soderquist is pledging a total of $40,000 in support of the Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy, with the only stipulation being that $40,000 in matching funds be raised from the SEA community and the business community at large. We need your help to meet this goal.

As Board Members, you all give so much to keep SEA moving forward; you also set the example for others. Our goal is 100% participation of our Board Members. We so appreciate how you've made the SEA a priority in your life, and we appreciate your support in meeting this goal.

As SEA Alumni, who have all received value because of the dedication of Board Members, speakers, staff and the business community. This is your chance to show your support back to the SEA. Our goal is 100% participation by alumni (at whatever level is significant for you). Even $5 can help us reach this goal. Please think about what you’ve gained through the Academy experience and be as generous as you can.

The Soderquist Family gift, and the request to solicit matching funds from the SEA community, will facilitate a leap in SEA’s growth. After 21 years, this gift brings energy, the necessary financial support to build on existing programs, and the resources to launch an even more successful program for the benefit of students, alumni, long-time supporters, and the larger business community. We hope to raise $20,000 by year end, and the remaining $20,000 by Spring 2008.

This money will allow us to do three main things: 1) hire part-time additional staff to focus on strategic issues and advocate for the SEA in the community, 2) purchase equipment and services to archive and disseminate key SEA program content, and 3) develop a seed fund for students and alumni. It will help us energize the SEA’s future.

We’ve made it as easy as possible for you to help out. Simply click here to contribute: Click to Open Web Page As a reminder, the SEA is a 503(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. The contributions given by the Soderquist family and those of matching donors are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. No goods and services will be provided in exchange for these financial donations. In a recent conversation, Chris Soderquist said that in building on SEA’s founding principle that entrepreneurs replicate themselves, he hopes this grant can be matched and replicated to help entrepreneurs do more of the same. We thank the Soderquist family for their generosity and leadership and eagerly embark on the SEA’s next chapter of success, entrepreneurship, and community. We thank you for considering a contribution at this exciting time.

Jim Corbett