Ideas by Youth, Inc.
Empowering Youth as Global Change-makers Through Social Entrepreneurship and Project-Based Learning (PBL)
Inspiring the next generation of social entrepreneurs to innovate solutions for real-world problems.
Who We Are:
Every day, young people face a world filled with complex global challenges: climate change, public health disparities, and financial inequalities. Ideas by Youth, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides the platform and tools they need to become the social entrepreneurs and leaders of tomorrow. Through our Project-Based Learning (PBL) programs, we empower youth to tackle these challenges head-on by developing real-world solutions to pressing issues. Our mission is to inspire purpose-driven innovation and nurture the change-makers of tomorrow.
With Ideas by Youth, students build entrepreneurial skills, solve community problems, and collaborate across borders. Whether through our online curriculum or on-site training, we are dedicated to equipping young people with the tools to create meaningful local change with global impact.
Our programs foster civic engagement by guiding students through the process of identifying community needs, engaging with stakeholders, and designing sustainable solutions. By encouraging them to explore their lived experiences and connect with others, we help students build confidence, critical consciousness, and leadership skills that prepare them for the future—not just in the classroom or workforce, but as leaders who drive global impact.
Empower the next generation of innovators!
Ready to Learn More?
Product: What We Offer
Our transformational 12-week program uses PBL to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset in students from grades 3-12. Through our six pathways—Health & Wellness, Financial Literacy, Community Organizing, Urban Farming, Social Entrepreneurship, and Digital Art—students explore pressing social issues, create business solutions, and emerge as ambassadors for change.
The experience culminates in a Shark Tank-style competition, where students present their ideas to a panel of experts for a chance to win a cash prize and receive a 2-month mentorship to take their concepts to the next level.
Highlights:
- 6 Unique PBL Pathways
- Hands-On Mentorship
- Real-World Projects
- Student Ambassadors for Change
Join the Journey!
Philosophy: Why We Do It
At Ideas by Youth, we believe that empowering young leaders through student-centered, hands-on learning is key to lasting social change. Our PBL programs engage students with real-world topics, build leadership skills, and inspire them to take actionable steps toward a better future.
Our Core Beliefs:
- Real-World Impact: Students tackle challenges like poverty and climate change, turning local solutions into action plans.
- Opportunities for All: We focus on accessibility, providing tools and mentorship for underserved youth to become change-makers.
Our Vision for the Future
Read Our Mission and Vision
Teaching Approach: How We Do It
Our teaching approach revolves around Project-Based Learning (PBL) as the core method to develop entrepreneurial skills. Here’s how we bring our approach to life:
- Dynamic PBL Curricula: Students explore challenges, create business prototypes, and drive positive change.
- Student-Centered Learning: Building critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills throughout the journey.
- Mentorship & Real-World Feedback: Culminating in a Shark Tank-style presentation, where students pitch their ideas and gain insights from experts.
By the end of the program, students are equipped with the skills and experience to make a lasting impact in their communities.
Experience Our Approach
See Our Programs in Action
Support the Future of Youth Innovation:
Your donation empowers the next generation of problem-solvers and entrepreneurs. By contributing, you directly support program expansion, scholarships for underserved students, curriculum development, and mentorship networks.
Invest in Tomorrow's Leaders!
