We’re raising $7,500 to continue making a positive impact on the lives of youth East of the River!

Youth Entrepreneur Institute (YEI) is on a mission to empower youth and break the cycle of poverty and crime by teaching the value of hard work and fostering entrepreneurial mindsets.

Our programs, including the "Smart Hustle" initiative, instill these values and help youth develop the skills they need to create their own businesses and lead youth-led economies. We emphasize creativity and innovation, showing youth that they can succeed through art and entrepreneurship.

Why Your Support Matters:

YEI helps youth envision and work towards productive and fulfilling lives, away from the pathways that lead to violence and crime. Since our inception, YEI has provided programs and paid internships that instill the value of hard work through business, art, and STEM experiences

How your gift works:

Make a one-time transaction on Give Butter —an investment in youth-made goods, learning kits, and program access.
$20.20/month—an easy, memorable way to sustain programs all year.
Purchase a Native Box ($50) = 1 Native Box— a $50 investment in youth-made goods, learning kits, and program access. To purchase a Native Box product, please order on our website: https://www.yeidc.org/store/p/native-box-board-edition
Give once, give monthly, or support a board member’s page—every $50 raised counts as 1 box toward their goal.

Impact you can see:

- Launch student businesses and product lines through our makerspaces.
- Fund youth stipends, supplies, and vending opportunities.
- Expand programming in Ward 7 & 8 with school and community partners.
- Power KidBizCON and year-round showcases that build real-world experience.

Check out some testimonials:

“Programs like YEI are important because they provide a vehicle for young people who don't have resources to see more than just their neighborhood. YEI not only teaches information but gives young people the tools to use that information now and see immediate and long-term benefits. They show how to take your talent and market it into something profitable today and provide training to take your business to the next level.”

– Samuel M, DOES Grant Manager

“I used to think my only option was to hustle on the streets. YEI taught me that there’s a smarter way to hustle. Now, I’m building my own brand and inspiring others to do the same.”

– Eric O, Alumni

“I own the business Trend Moda. Trend Moda is a business where you can upcycle and create clothes and set trends. It was made for low-income families and people who want to feel unique with their clothes.

YEI has taught me business management, how to grow my business, and how to make money. It inspires me to really start a business because I know I can do it.”

– Najae P, Alumni

“My brand, Disorderly Fashion, is a streetwear brand dedicated to pushing the narrative on individuality through design.

To youth considering joining YEI, I would say just show up. Whether you intend to be a business owner or not, there is so much you can learn.”

– Armone G, Alumni

“I am now holding myself more accountable for things I wouldn’t have before, and I think being in the program made me a happier person. To youth considering joining YEI, I would say take full advantage of this opportunity and Mark & Ms. Caprise are amazing staff.”

– Mariome T, 2024 Student

“I've gained a new hobby and something to relieve stress. To youth considering joining YEI, I would say just join because the staff are very helpful with your business and other needs. They are also good to talk to.”

– Miracle A, 2024 Student

“The program was great; it helped me start my business and meet new people. To youth considering joining YEI, I would say don’t be scared to try new things.”

– Vegas M, 2024 Student

“I know from teaching that you can move students two, three, four years if you have great relationships with them. I think that what makes YEI special is that our students are able to find success in ways that they haven't found success before. There’s a possibility for students to be experts at something, which builds their confidence and skill set. Our students and families also tell us that they need basic assistance with funding their lives, training for employment, and connections to opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have.”

– Latisha C, Connected Schools Manager

How you can help?

Whether you are a board member or a supporter, we hope you see the value in empowering our youth and investing in their futures.

We are asking for your help to bring this vision to reality: any contribution you can make, whether that is money, time, or resources, will take us one step closer to making a positive impact on the lives of our youth..Here’s how board members can fulfill their $500 Give or Get requirement:

Immediate Payment: Make a one-time transaction on Give Butter.
Monthly Payment Plan: Set up a payment plan, $20.20/month—an easy, memorable way to sustain programs all year.
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Fulfill this commitment by sending the link to friends/family and raising funds by September 1.

Join us in supporting YEI's mission to empower youth, tap into their potential, and put poverty out of business through art and innovation. Every contribution counts and brings us one step closer to making a lasting impact on our community.

YEI Board Challenge 2025-2026

Join Us in Supporting At-Risk Youth Through Entrepreneurship, STEM, and Arts Education

Team Members