Amherst Launches Free Youth Entrepreneurship Summer Program

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst has announced a new partnership with the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial skills among youth. Through this collaboration, the Amherst Recreation Department will introduce an innovative summer program – BizCamp – which is designed to empower local students with the tools and mindsets necessary to navigate and succeed in today’s dynamic economy.  

Facilitators Junoon Giridhar and Irv Rhodes will lead NFTE’s experiential, project-based curriculum, as participants engage in activities that promote creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, laying the foundation for future entrepreneurial endeavors. 

This free program is open to Amherst residents and Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools students currently in Grades 7-11. Sessions run Monday through Thursday mornings, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m, for two weeks from July 14 through July 24, at Amherst Regional High School. All costs are covered by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding allocated to support youth empowerment. 

The program will culminate in a Youth Entrepreneurship Pitch Challenge, providing students with the opportunity to present their business ideas to a panel of local business leaders and community members. This event not only celebrates the students’ hard work and innovation but also connects them with potential mentors and resources to further their entrepreneurial journeys.  

By investing in the development of young entrepreneurs, the Town of Amherst and NFTE are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and economic growth within the community. 

To apply, please visit: bit.ly/Amherst-BizCamp-2025

This program is limited to a maximum of 15 participants. Apply early to secure a spot. 

The town encourages local entrepreneurs and business leaders to share their expertise with the young participants as a guest speaker or business plan coach. To learn more, please reach out to Becky Demling, Amherst Recreation Outreach Director, at demlingb@amherstma.gov. 

About NFTE
Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures. A global nonprofit founded in 1987, NFTE provides high-quality entrepreneurship education to middle school, high school and postsecondary students. NFTE brings the power of entrepreneurship to students, regardless of family income, community resources, special needs, gender identity, race, or ethnicity. NFTE has educated more than a million students, delivering our programs in school, out of school, in-person, online, or through hybrid models. Visit nfte.com to learn more.