Aspiring Youth Academy Partners with ASU's J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute to Empower Teens in our Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 25, 2024, Phoenix, AZ – Aspiring Youth Academy (AYA), a beacon of innovation and advocacy for underserved youth, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University. This collaboration is set to transform the landscape of youth entrepreneurship in Maricopa County by focusing on leadership, financial literacy, and igniting the entrepreneurial spirit in teens 14-18 throughout Maricopa County.

Since its inception in 2014, Aspiring Youth Academy has dedicated itself to uplifting Title 1 students, with 86% of its demographic coming from these communities. The academy has profoundly impacted these young lives, providing them with the critical skills needed to navigate and succeed in the business world.

2025 Program Overview

The partnership will introduce significant initiatives designed to engage and educate over 400 teens at no cost to the students. Key programs include:

AYA Spring Break Entrepreneurship Camp: A flagship event where 85-100 teens will participate in a “Shark Tank” style business pitch competition. This program is crafted to boost confidence and practical business skills in a dynamic camp setting in Prescott, AZ, jointly delivered with ASU’s Edson E+I team.
AYA Innovation Hub Powered by ASU: Is a comprehensive 15-course entrepreneurship curriculum delivered across to Title 1 schools as well as local nonprofits, in collaboration with ASU’s Edson E+I.
AYA Mentor Leadership Program: This initiative connects business leaders with teens to nurture their business ideas, provide mentorship, explore potential scholarship opportunities, and host monthly events to advance youth in our community.

Impact and Community Engagement

The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU is known for its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Through this partnership, AYA aims to leverage ASU’s expertise to elevate the educational quality and expand the reach of its programs, thereby enhancing youth empowerment and community engagement.

Sustainability and Future Growth

With a robust leadership team including a dedicated Executive Director and a newly appointed Program Manager, AYA is strategically poised for sustainable growth. The organization’s development strategy includes a mix of diverse funding sources, ensuring the longevity and scalability of its impactful programs.

Conclusion

Investing in Aspiring Youth Academy is an investment in the future. It promises not only immediate benefits but also long-term economic stability and innovation within the community. This partnership is a commitment to fostering a cycle of success that transcends generations.

Contact Information

To learn more about this transformative partnership or to discuss funding and involvement opportunities, please contact: Bridget Costello, Executive Director Aspiring Youth Academy Tel: 480-217-1806 Email: bridget@aspiringyouth.org

We look forward to engaging with you to make a lasting impact in the lives of our youth and our community.

About Aspiring Youth Academy – Founded in 2014, Aspiring Youth Academy has been a pillar of hope and innovation in Arizona, dedicated to empowering teens throughout Maricopa County through entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy.

About the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU – The Institute is a leader in cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship, offering resources that advance entrepreneurship education through strategic partnerships and initiatives.

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