Mission & Core Beliefs

Students

YEA Mission

The Young Entrepreneurs Alliance (YEA) was founded on the belief that teens from all walks of life have innate talents, waiting to be discovered. YEA helps low-income teens realize their economic potential and take steps toward financial independence by owning and running viable businesses. YEA opens doors to higher education and meaningful employment, enabling teens to envision and create a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Core Beliefs

YEA focuses on revealing and developing the strengths of each teen we serve. We help our teens discover and apply their unique strengths to the business team. They learn the professional and leadership skills they need to succeed in business. In the process, they develop new marketable skills and enduring self-confidence.

Guiding Principles

1. Hands-on entrepreneurship is the most effective vehicle for teaching a broad range of financial, business and life skills.

2. Owning and running a real income-generating business is the key to engaging and empowering teens.

3. Teens thrive when they receive ongoing support from caring adults.

4. With a rigorous curriculum, relevant instruction, and powerful relationships, low-income teens will graduate ready to pursue higher education and meaningful work.

5. Given the opportunity, all teens can find the seeds to success within themselves.

What Students Need

  • Access to paid work
  • Professional networking skills and opportunities
  • Job readiness skills
  • College readiness skills
  • Venues and skills to move out of poverty
  • Increased self-esteem

What YEA Offers

  • Real World Experience
    • Interaction with clients
    • Management and ownership
  • Personal Development
    • Communication
    • Leadership
    • Mentors
  • Earned Income