Our youth entrepreneurship program, HOPE Business In A Box Academies (HBIABA), creates next-gen business builders by providing students with the support and business role models to succeed.

Participants are guided through four modules: Basics of Business, Developing Your Business Idea; Developing a Financial Plan for your Business; Communication and Public Speaking Skills; and participate in a business pitch competition. Winners are matched with business role models for one-on-one business development and coaching before presenting their final business plans to qualify for a start-up grant.

With the support of HOPE Corps. volunteers who serve as classroom mentors, youth entrepreneurs adapt their business plans, get advice on adding new service options, and hiring staff. They learn how to present themselves professionally and gain business confidence and skills.