Recent Impact Stories
From building confidence to fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities, these stories showcase the power of our programs in nurturing the next generation of diverse innovators and leaders.
St. Louis Youth GLOW during Afterschool Entrepreneurship Program
Discover how Mission St. Louis partnered with VentureLab to implement an innovative afterschool entrepreneurship program for K-8 students. Learn how the 15-week Idea to Pitch curriculum culminated in an inspiring pitch contest, boosting students’ confidence, public speaking skills, and interest in STEM fields.
Students Take Center Stage in New Entrepreneurship Initiative by VentureLab and Saint Louis University
This summer, VentureLab and Saint Louis University (SLU) partnered to create an inspiring entrepreneurship experience for young innovators in St. Louis. Through the Allsup Summer Camp, students engaged in VentureLab’s “Idea to Pitch” program, developing critical entrepreneurial skills, participating in innovation challenges, and presenting their ideas in a pitch competition. This collaboration highlights our shared commitment to empowering youth and fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs.
Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs in Illinois
Discover how a nonprofit agency in Springfield, IL empowers low-income and minority high school students to become entrepreneurs. Through a 17-week afterschool program, underserved students gain skills for successful business models. With VentureLab’s Idea to Pitch program, they improve public speaking and embrace failure. TSP staff drive curiosity and collaboration for engaging STEM learning. The program culminates in a student showcase, and 90% report increased STEM interest.
Impact on kids
Educator Success Stories
Discover how educators around the world are integrating our entrepreneurship curriculum to inspire and empower their students. Hear firsthand accounts of how our programs create engaging learning environments that nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
VentureLab is able to inspire stories like these thanks to private donations. Want to support future changemakers like these?
Program Success Stories
Garcia Center Middle School Spring Break Camp
At the Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center (Garcia Center) middle school students had an incredible opportunity to explore entrepreneurship during a week-long spring break camp. The center is known for providing evidence-based academic programs to at-risk youth, health education classes to underserved populations, and community programs that promote creativity and problem-solving.
Partnering with VentureLab to implement the Idea to Pitch program, the Garcia Center, with the support of Upward Bound mentors, created an engaging and impactful experience for local 8th graders.
Idea to Pitch Program Impact:
The results were outstanding. After the program, 81% of students expressed increased interest in owning a business, and every student reported a boost in self-confidence. Using VentureLab’s survey tool, the Garcia Center collected valuable data to measure the program’s success, demonstrating real and lasting impact.
VentureLab is proud to support the Garcia Center’s mission to empower youth in Texas. This partnership exemplifies how, together, we can inspire and equip the next generation of diverse innovators and changemakers.
Entre+Ag Program at MRES
At the Midwest Regional Educational Service Center (MRESC) in Fairlawn, students had an exciting opportunity to delve into entrepreneurship through our Entrepreneurship +Agriculture program. Known for its dedication to providing comprehensive educational support, MRESC partnered with VentureLab to bring this innovative program to life, offering students hands-on experiences that blend entrepreneurship with agricultural concepts.
The Entre+Ag program, implemented during the spring semester, empowered students to develop critical skills in product design, problem-solving, and creativity. With the support of dedicated educators and program manager Jeanne McDonagh, students were encouraged to explore their ideas and bring them to fruition, learning to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship along the way.
Program Impact:
The outcomes were remarkable. After participating in the program, 92% of students reported an increase in creativity, 83% were eager to tackle new problem-solving tasks, and another 83% demonstrated heightened empathy. The program not only equipped students with entrepreneurial skills but also fostered a sense of resilience and adaptability.
VentureLab is honored to support MRESC in its mission to provide high-quality educational programs that prepare students for future success. This collaboration exemplifies how combining innovative educational approaches with community support can inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.
10+ Years of Impact
For over a decade, VentureLab has been empowering young minds with the skills and confidence to innovate and lead. Through our programs, thousands of students have transformed their ideas into real-world solutions, making a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.