Our 6-week Summer ACCELERATE Program was more than just a series of workshops—it was a transformative experience that blended education with real-world application, setting the stage for these young leaders to thrive in their chosen paths.
From day one, our students dove headfirst into learning the essentials of financial literacy. Students were given a financial foundation learning the ins and outs of budgeting, bank accounts and investing. These weren’t just abstract concepts; they were tools that the students could use to take control of their financial futures.
But the growth didn’t stop there. Every week, our space filled with the energy of students mastering personal branding, perfecting their resumes, and practicing the art of networking and interviewing. These professional skills were more than just lessons—they were stepping stones, preparing our students to confidently step into the workforce or launch their entrepreneurial ventures. One of the most memorable aspects of the program was watching students come together to tackle group projects. Through hands-on activities and challenges, they learned the nuances of project management and the importance of effective teamwork. These experiences not only taught them how to lead and collaborate, but also how to navigate the inevitable bumps in the road that come with working in teams. The camaraderie that developed among the students was inspiring, as they supported each other and grew together.
Choose Your Path: Intrapreneur vs. Entrepreneur
As the program unfolded, students chose between two exciting paths: Intrapreneurship or Entrepreneurship.
Intrapreneur Track: For those who chose the intrapreneur path, the program offered a taste of the corporate world. Students were placed in internships at some of Chicago’s most dynamic businesses, where they got a behind-the-scenes look at daily operations. Here, they gained hands-on experience, learning how businesses function from the inside out. These internships were more than just opportunities; they were launchpads into future careers. THANK YOU to following companies who hosted our interns this summer: Coffee Hip Hop & Mental Health, Ordr Smart, Keep With, Gumbo Media, Cast 21, Homegirl Hummus, The UDE Agency, Innovative Scholars, Semilas Plant Studio, Muse Coffee, Chicago French Press and Pgrssn
Entrepreneur Track: Meanwhile, the entrepreneur students were on a different kind of journey—one filled with innovation and creativity. Each week, they met with seasoned entrepreneurs and subject matter experts who shared their insights, offered mentorship, and provided feedback on the students’ business ideas. These sessions were a blend of inspiration and hard work, as students refined their concepts, tackled challenges, and prepared to pitch their businesses. THANK YOU to our experts for offering your knowledge to our budding entrepreneurs: Francesca Fontenot, Dan Hogan, Anna Deshawn, Kelly Carter, Adam Falkof, Vincent Williams, Niara Adero, Adrienne McFarland, Chika Umeadi and Stacey Pitts Caldwell.
A Sweet Experience: Innovation at Ferrara Candy
One of the highlights of the program was the field trip hosted by one of our partners, Ferrara Candy. As the students walked through the halls of this iconic company, they were given a behind the scenes peak into the world of innovation and creativity. Seeing how ideas come to life in the form of candy was not just fun—it was a powerful lesson in the importance of creativity in business. The trip was a sweet reminder that innovation can happen anywhere, even in the most unexpected places.
Building Connections: Networking with Link Unlimited
Community and connection are at the heart of everything we do, which is why our partnership with Link Unlimited was such a key part of the program. Together, we hosted a networking session that brought together high school students from across the city. Students connected with one another, shared ideas, and began to build networks. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of building a community around shared goals and aspirations.
The Grand Finale: Pitching at Pitch Black
As the program drew to a close, the entrepreneur students faced their biggest challenge yet—pitching their business ideas at Pitch Black. The energy in the room was supportive as each student took the stage, presenting their hard work to a panel of judges. It was a moment of pride, not just for the students, but for everyone who had supported them along the way.
In the end, five young innovators walked away with more than $15,000 in seed funding, along with additional resource support to help them continue developing their businesses. The journey doesn’t end here—over the next year, these young entrepreneurs will receive ongoing mentorship and resources to help them turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright
Reflecting on the Summer Accelerate Program, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of pride for what our students have accomplished. They’ve learned, grown, and transformed, and they’re now better equipped to navigate the paths they’ve chosen. But more than that, they’ve become part of a community that supports, encourages, and uplifts them.
As we look to the future, we’re excited to see what these incredible students will achieve. Whether they’re building businesses or making an impact within established companies, we know they’re destined for great things. Here’s to the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers—your journey is just beginning! Apply to our current programs https://bit.ly/TGMEAPPLY
Learn more www.graymatterexperience.com/programsÂ
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