"We want to start a business." These words first inspired BUILD's founder, who agreed to help four young entrepreneurs – on the condition that they finish high school. Now in five locations across the country, including DC where more than 300 students participate annually, BUILD runs a comprehensive, four-year business and academic program that immerses students in entrepreneurship training, teaches critical thinking and problem solving, and propels them toward college. BUILD Metro DC begins in 9th grade with a credit-bearing course at six DC schools and then shifts to an after-school program. Students craft business plans, make pitches for venture capital, build a small business, and "cash-out"; in the third year, they focus intensively on college readiness. 98% of students graduate on time; 97% are accepted into a post-secondary institution; 75% into four-year colleges. The profit is clear.
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