At VentureLab, we know that when young people are given the space to explore, create, and dream—amazing things happen. That’s why we’re proud to stand with our friends and partners in the afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) space, who make these opportunities possible every day.
Across the country, dedicated educators, mentors, and program leaders are opening doors for youth through hands-on learning, mentorship, and community connection. These programs don’t just fill the hours after school—they light the spark of possibility.
As our partners know, entrepreneurial learning thrives outside the traditional classroom. We’ve seen firsthand how youth blossom when they can explore the VentureLab ESTEAM® approach—Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math—in environments that prioritize creativity, confidence, and collaboration.
That’s why we’re joining Afterschool Alliance in celebrating the reinstatement of federal funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)—a program that has made a big difference in the lives of millions of youth and families.
Great news! 21st CCLC funding has been released—but we need to keep the momentum going.
Thanks to more than 107,000 public messages and strong bipartisan support in Congress, funding for afterschool and summer learning programs is back on track.
Here’s how you can help keep this success going:
- Spread the word that 21st CCLC is safe—for now—and celebrate what this means for youth and communities.
- Get the Afterschool Digital Action Toolkit to help others stay informed and engaged.
The Power of Partnership
We are continually inspired by the work of our partners—school districts, libraries, Boys & Girls Clubs, 50 state afterschool network and other community-based organizations—who use VentureLab’s curriculum to create joyful learning experiences that empower youth.
Our partners make entrepreneurial learning accessible to students who may not otherwise see themselves as innovators or changemakers. They’re not just offering programs—they’re building futures.
Afterschool and Summer Learning Work
Here’s what we know—and what research confirms:
- Kids in OST programs do better in school, with improved grades, attendance, and social-emotional growth.
- These programs help youth build the skills and mindsets that last a lifetime: curiosity, persistence, teamwork, and leadership.
- They offer safe, enriching environments during critical hours, especially for working families.
- And yes—they work: every $1 invested in afterschool programs saves taxpayers $3 in long-term benefits.
You can read more about the impact of these programs from Afterschool Alliance’s research, or check out how we’re measuring impact with our partners in our Program Impact Reports.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
At VentureLab, we’re hopeful. Why? Because we see what’s possible when we work together. Victoria’s transformation through VentureLab’s ESTEAM® programs illustrates exactly why Out‑of‑School Time (OTS) funding matters:
Through enriched after‑school programming funded by OTS grants, Victoria didn’t just learn entrepreneurship—she cultivated empathy, confidence, and a mindset for innovation. VentureLab’s 2024 Annual Report confirms that OST initiatives help young learners become creators and problem‑solvers, reinforcing that “early intervention and learner‑centered education can empower young learners with purpose and agency.”
Without OTS funding, programs like VentureLab couldn’t provide the training, mentorship, and supportive environments essential for students like Victoria to thrive. Investing in OTS isn’t just funding after-school activities—it’s investing in the next generation of confident, creative changemakers.
Victoria’s story is just one of many successes we’ve witnessed. These are real stories, from real programs, powered by caring adults and communities who believe in young people.
We’re proud to be part of this movement—and to walk alongside the inspiring leaders and partners who are making entrepreneurial learning real, relevant, and joyful. Let’s keep building a world where every young person can thrive—during school, after school, and all summer long.
