Empowering Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs: The Youth Entrepreneur Institute’s Transformative Journey

At the Youth Entrepreneur Institute (YEI), we believe that potential should never be limited by circumstance. Every young person deserves the opportunity to dream boldly, innovate fearlessly, and create a future filled with possibilities. But for many of the students we serve—talented, resilient, and full of ambition—access to entrepreneurial education, mentorship, and resources remains out of reach.

This is where YEI steps in.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Our program is more than just an educational initiative—it is a launchpad for success. YEI provides underprivileged youth with the skills, tools, and real-world experiences necessary to start and sustain their own businesses. Through hands-on training, mentorship from industry leaders, and access to professional networks, our students learn how to turn ideas into thriving enterprises.

For many of these young entrepreneurs, YEI represents their first opportunity to see a different future—one where they are not just employees but business owners, innovators, and leaders in their communities.

Real Impact, Real Lives Changed

Meet Deloris Betty Barbett: A Future Business Leader

One of our brightest stars is Deloris Betty Barbett, a graduating senior from Bard High School and Early College. She has been part of the YEI family for four years, growing from a determined student into a confident entrepreneur and leader.

In the fall of 2022, Deloris launched Chill & Thrill, a business dedicated to empowering people to take their safety into their own hands. Understanding the importance of personal protection, she created a line of defensive keychains that quickly became a hit among students and community members alike.

Her passion, dedication, and business acumen led her to win first place in the 2023 YEI Business Pitch Competition, a prestigious recognition that rewarded her vision and determination. Today, she is preparing to expand Chill & Thrill while finishing high school—a true testament to what young entrepreneurs can achieve when given the right support and resources.

Your Support Can Change a Life

Deloris is just one success story, but many more young minds are waiting for their opportunity. Many students have the drive but lack access to essential resources—laptops for business planning, seed funding for their ventures, or even the guidance of a mentor who believes in them.

This is why we need YOU.

Your contribution through this fundraising auction will directly support:
✔ Business Grants to help students fund their first product launch
✔ Workshops & Mentorship Programs led by successful entrepreneurs
✔ Technology & Tools needed to build, market, and scale their businesses
✔ Pop-Up Shop & Market Access to help students sell and showcase their products

Invest in the Future—One Entrepreneur at a Time

When you bid on an auction item tonight, you are not just winning a prize—you are making an investment. You are investing in the next generation of leaders, changemakers, and job creators. You are giving a young entrepreneur the chance to defy the odds, break generational barriers, and create lasting economic impact.

Together, we can change lives, build futures, and empower the next wave of entrepreneurs.

Bid generously. Give boldly. Watch dreams take flight.

YEI's 2025 Hearts & Hustle Benefits Bash

By Youth Entrepreneur Institute

YEI's 2025 Hearts & Hustle Benefits Bash

Putting Poverty Out of Business