Inspire! Ignite!
NFTE ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures.
Learn About Us

Our Model
NFTE empowers partners and school districts to integrate entrepreneurial education across curricula and equip students with the skills, connections, credentials, and real-world experiences needed to lead change and own their futures.

Our Impact
Since 1987, NFTE has provided entrepreneurship education for youth in underserved communities. Meet alumni who changed their life trajectory, explored their passions, and ignited their entrepreneurial mindset to prepare for work and own their futures.

Our Reach
Alongside partners around the world and in seven U.S. regions, NFTE’s comprehensive entrepreneurial education program has reached more than a million learners. See how NFTE works in your community to launch the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs.
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What alumni say about NFTE

“Witnessing young entrepreneurs transform their passion into viable business concepts reminds me why innovation matters. These students don’t just present ideas. They present solutions to real problems in their communities, often with insights that seasoned professionals miss.”

“I remember the day I came home to find my mom crying over a bank statement. I thought I should drop out and get a construction job to help with rent. NFTE helped me see other options and develop my idea for a basketball camp. What started as a class project became my career, the way I provide for my family.”

“I was looking at different career paths. I wanted to be a teacher, a psychologist, and then I said: What about the business field? My school has an entrepreneurship program. At the end, you do a two-minute pitch in front of judges. They chose me to go to the NFTE competition. I won.”

“People think entrepreneurship is hard, but I think the toughest part is getting started. I want to empower and inspire others, particularly students of color. Entrepreneurship is a possibility for them too.”

“Without the NFTE curriculum, I never would have gained all of the important business skills, critical thinking skills, and entrepreneurial skills to be able to continue down the path of fashion.”

“NFTE equipped me with mentors and curriculum to teach me about entrepreneurship. It helped me engender an entrepreneurial mindset that I took with me into life. I regained confidence I had lost growing up in foster care.”

“My story is one of triumph over tragedy but it’s also about being additive to the growth of the American economy. And that began with NFTE. My mind was immediately opened when I learned what NFTE was doing with kids like me. It was critical in helping me change my life trajectory.”
Your support will fuel a future full of diverse entrepreneurs by helping young people discover their potential. $500 donated supports a student for a year (that’s just $42 per month!). Maximize your gift! Through our sponsor, American Student Assistance (ASA), each new or increased donation unlocks a 25% matching gift of up to $2 million.
Impact Stats
1.4M
Since 1987, NFTE has reached 1.4 million+ learners worldwide.
65%
65% of NFTE’s students are people of color & 43% identify as female.
71%
71% of NFTE’s students qualify for free and reduced-price school meals.
90%
90% of employers say the workforce needs the entrepreneurship skills that NFTE teaches.
96%
96% of alumni value volunteer engagement & 3,000 volunteers give 10,000 hours each year.
75%
75% of alumni have career satisfaction, while 25% say they start/run businesses.