The Academy for Creating Enterprise is proud to announce its continued partnership with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a featured charity in the 2025 Light the World Giving Machines initiative.
The Giving Machines are part of the Church’s worldwide Light the World campaign — a seasonal effort that encourages people everywhere to share light, kindness and service during the Christmas season. These special vending machines allow individuals to “purchase” charitable items — such as livestock, school supplies, food, or hygiene kits — for those in need. Instead of buying something for themselves, participants make a donation that directly blesses individuals and families around the world.
Due to the generosity of donors from 2024, members around the world received items that are helping them create and strengthen businesses that help them support their families and improve their circumstances. Watch this video to learn more!
Each of these donations helps an Academy member in one of 17 countries start or expand a small business. In addition to receiving the donated resources, Academy members are given access to business training, mentoring and local chapter support groups that help them achieve long-term self-reliance.
“We are thrilled to once again be part of this incredible global effort to Light the World,” said Cam Crowther, president of the Academy for Creating Enterprise. “The Giving Machines provide a simple yet powerful way for individuals and families to make a real impact. Each donation not only provides essential resources but also opens the door to education and opportunity for someone striving to build a better life.”
The Giving Machines will be available in cities across the United States and internationally starting in November 2025. Visitors can find their nearest location and learn more about the initiative here.
The Academy will be represented in the following locations:
- Church History Museum, downtown SLC from November 24-January 2
- Miller Ballpark in Downtown Daybreak from November 24-January 3
- BYU Provo (Wilkinson Student Center & Marriott Center) from December 1-23
For those unable to visit in person, the Academy invites donors to contribute online through its website. One hundred percent of your donations, whether made in person or online, is donated to the charity recipient, with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covering all operational costs.
About the Academy for Creating Enterprise
Founded in 1999, the Academy for Creating Enterprise is a nonprofit organization dedicated to lifting individuals and families out of poverty through entrepreneurship education and mentoring. With active chapters in more than 17 countries, the Academy has trained over 157,000 members in business and self-reliance principles, helping them build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their local communities.