Applications now open for our 2025 accelerator for youth-serving nonprofits in the US
News
The Global Business Coalition for Education has opened applications for its third year of the Youth Skills and Employment Accelerator [previously known as the Skills Friendly Cities network].
The Youth Skills and Employment Accelerator helps nonprofits working with young people from underserved communities to connect with other organizations, businesses and funders to improve young people’s skills and employment prospects.
Alarming trends indicate that by 2030, over half of the world’s young people will not have the most basic skills for employment. In the United States, one in 10 youth (approximately 4 million young people) is not in school or work, with most lacking key skills required by most employers.
At the same time, employers across all sectors report challenges finding youth with the skills required to fill open positions ranging from digital and green tech jobs to STEM, financing, banking, and beyond.
Many organizations in the US and globally recognize this crisis and have developed innovative solutions. Still, most social issues, including the youth skills and employment crisis, threaten to dwarf even the most well-resourced nonprofit.
However, evidence shows that networked nonprofits are more likely to achieve their missions efficiently, effectively and sustainably than if they work alone. This network approach is especially effective in programs working with marginalized young people in their local communities.
Since setting up our youth skills network in 2022, we have completed two rounds of our annual accelerator programs, investing in 28 nonprofits in 22 states. This has impacted over 200,000 young people.
Our accelerator provides the tools and support these nonprofits need to make a real difference in the lives of young people.
Justin van Fleet, CEO of the Global Business Coalition for Education
“With one in ten young people in the U.S. not in school or work, there’s an urgent need to invest in their future,” said Justin van Fleet, CEO of the Global Business Coalition for Education. “Our accelerator provides the tools and support these nonprofits need to make a real difference in the lives of young people.”
The 2025 accelerator will offer participants a range of benefits, including:
- Training: Workshops and training sessions on topics such as leadership, program development, and fundraising
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with other nonprofits, businesses, and funders
- Pro-bono support: Access to corporate resources, such as technology donations and consulting services
Following participation in the year-long program, organizations and their leaders remain part of the network. Alumnus participants have access to ongoing networking and peer-to-peer support opportunities.
Applications for the 2025 accelerator are now open and will be accepted until 15th November 11:59 PM ET. For more information please visit the Youth Skills and Employment Accelerator page.
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