Youth entrepreneurship program launches in Jackson, Macon, Clay

COOKEVILLE – The Biz Foundry, the Upper Cumberland’s entrepreneur center, has launched My Big Idea, an after-school program for high school students in Jackson, Macon and Clay, and the program could be added in other counties soon.

The program, which kick started Feb. 1, aims to teach students about entrepreneurship, generate business ideas and teach real-world business and problem solving skills.

“We want to show kids in rural areas they are not limited by where they live,” says Jeff Brown, Biz Foundry president. “Some of the greatest minds have come from rural places. And we want to make sure to spark that fire in those who have it.”

The four-week program takes place after school for two hours. The Jackson County program began Wednesday, Feb. 1; Macon County Thursday, Feb. 2; and Clay County Tuesday, Feb. 7. All participants will gather at 5 p.m. March 3 for a 24-hour event that includes hands-on experience, rapid prototyping and a business pitches to audiences and investors. Cash prizes will be awarded.

This program is free for students, and each session is limited to 15-20 participants. Biz Foundry officials said they will be hosting the program in other counties in the UC. Dates and exact locations are to be announced.

Liz Engel is the editor of the Upper Cumberland Business Journal. She can be reached at liz@ucbjournal.com

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