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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
New Youth Entrepreneurship Program Debuts in Augusta
A new initiative in Augusta, Georgia aims to empower the next generation of business leaders. Cura Community Outreach has launched The Power of Y.E.P. (Youth Entrepreneurship Program), a free 12-week entrepreneurship course designed to help middle and high school students across Augusta and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) turn their business ideas into reality.
Background and Inspiration Behind the Program
The program originates from the personal experiences of Dr. Yolanda Jackson, president and founder of Cura Community Outreach. Jackson was inspired to create this student business training initiative through her family’s entrepreneurial roots. "My grandmother owned a beauty salon in her community for over 40 years," she said, reflecting on how small businesses can impact a community. She sees similar potential in the youth of Augusta and the broader CSRA, remarking, "What I’ve learned since I’ve been here in Augusta is that our youth are very creative, they’re very innovative and those things are power."
Curriculum and Program Details
The Power of Y.E.P. offers a hands-on curriculum that guides students through the essentials of the entrepreneurial mindset, financial literacy, and business plan writing. The course is designed to equip csra youth with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to become successful entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities.
The 12-week entrepreneurship course will begin on January 9, 2027. It is open to students in grades six through twelve from Augusta and the surrounding areas. Classes will be held at Accelerate Augusta, located at 600 Broad Street.
Enrollment and Participation Opportunities
Parents and guardians interested in enrolling their students can join the interest list by scanning the QR code found on Cura Community Outreach's official website. The program encourages participation from augusta students who are enthusiastic about learning more about small business education and entrepreneurship course fundamentals.
Opportunities for Sponsors and Mentors
To ensure the program's continued growth and success, Cura Community Outreach is seeking additional support from community sponsors and mentors. Individuals or organizations interested in providing entrepreneurship mentorship or sponsorship are invited to contact the organization directly by emailing info@yepempowerment.org.
Supporting Youth Business Education in the CSRA
The Power of Y.E.P. seeks to cultivate a new generation of business-minded leaders in the region. With a focus on student business training, entrepreneurial mindset development, business plan writing, and financial literacy, the program offers local youth valuable tools for future success.
Source: wjbf.com.
