Applications open October 19, 2026
Five months to build your business. A stage in April to show it.
If you are in grades 8 through 12 in Buffalo or
Niagara Falls and you have an idea, or you are
already selling something, the Entrepreneur
Development Program is where it becomes a real
business.
Who it's for
Students in grades 8 through 12 who are already selling
something, sold something once and want to get back to it, or have a business idea they talk about all the time.
You do not need a business yet. You need an idea that is
yours and the willingness to show up every week.
What you get
Weekly coaching, in person, from people who run businesses
A written business plan with your name on it
A pitch in front of the community at the Youth Pitch Competition
Your family in the room at the April celebration
The opportunity to earn a Business Investment for an
approved business need
A place in the Growth Series & Alumni Network after May
When and where
October 19, 2026
Applications close November 15
By December 14
Every applicant hears from us
January 2027
Family orientation at your site
January to May
Tuesdays, 7 to 9 PM
Sat, March 20, 2027
Pitch Prep Academy
Sat, April 10, 2027
Youth Pitch Competition
Sat, April 24, 2027
Empower716 celebration
Buffalo
The Foundry · 20 seats 298 Northampton Street, Buffalo, NY
Niagara Falls
Packard Court Community Center · 20 seats 4300 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
How it works
1
Apply.
A short application you can finish on your phone.
2
Hear back.
Every applicant hears from us by December 14.
3
Show up.
Orientation in January, then Tuesday evenings through May.
4
Build and pitch.
Write the plan, practice the pitch, deliver it April 10.
5
Keep going.
The Growth Series & Alumni Network picks up after May.
One real voice next to the decision. No stand-in quotes; the
block stays hidden until a released quote exists.
Questions
Does it cost anything?
No. There is no cost to participate.
How much time does the Development Program take?
Tuesdays from 7 to 9 PM, January through May 2027, at both sites.
Where is it?
The Foundry in Buffalo and Packard Court Community Center in Niagara Falls.
Does my child need a business already?
No. An idea and the willingness to show up every week is enough.
What is a Business Investment?
Money for an approved business need, earned by completing the program steps. Think equipment, inventory, or a business license. It is not a cash prize.
What do parents do?
Help with the application, come to family orientation in January, and be the adult we can reach. You are invited to the pitch and the celebration.
Who is in the room with my child?
Experienced facilitators, with at least two adults present at every in-person session in Buffalo and Niagara Falls.
Can I nominate someone?
Yes. Teachers, counselors, coaches, pastors, family members, mentors, and business owners can all nominate. Young people cannot nominate themselves. Nominations open in early 2027.
Who do I contact?
Dr. Clement Kwakye, Program Coordinator: [email protected]