WHAT WE
STAND FOR

At Dare to Dream, we believe every young person, no matter their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or background, has the potential to create lasting change. Our values, vision, and commitment are rooted in the belief that inclusive entrepreneurship can empower youth and their communities to thrive.

MISSION

We equip youth and underserved communities with the confidence, education, mentorship, and resources to chase their passions unapologetically through entrepreneurship.

VISION

Creating a ripple effect where empowered young entrepreneurs drive economic mobility across generations.

PURPOSE

We exist to help people build what they love and transform the way people work by connecting passion with opportunity so that prosperity is possible for all, lifestyles reflect their dreams, and opportunity is within reach for all.

THE DREAMER'S CODE

At Dare to Dream, our commandments shape how we show up for each other and how we build bold, transformative futures. These principles are more than words—they are lived, practiced, and celebrated every day.

Always do your best; your best changes

Strive for excellence, understanding that what you can give today may be different tomorrow, and that’s okay. Adapt, grow, and keep pushing forward.

Big Plans, Small Steps

Break down your grand vision into actionable, manageable steps. Progress is made one step at a time.

Accountability

Take responsibility for your actions and commitments. Hold yourself and others to a high standard to ensure collective success.

Transparency

Be open and honest in all that you do. Clear communication builds trust and strengthens our community.

People first. Purpose first

We prioritize people and our shared purpose. Our mission and the individuals we serve are at the core of every decision we make.

Be a leader. No choice. Leaders help leaders

Everyone has the power to lead. Leadership is about empowering others and creating a culture where leaders help each other grow.

Embrace Craziness. Nothing is Impossible

.Dare to dream big and take on bold ideas. What seems out of reach is just another challenge to overcome with creativity and determination.

No assumptions. Always ask questions

Never assume you have all the answers. Curiosity drives learning and ensures we make informed decisions together.

Markers should be green

Every voice matters. We foster an environment where all ideas are valued, encouraging collaboration and innovation.

Stay Curious

Never stop exploring and learning. Curiosity fuels innovation and helps us continuously improve.

OUR CORE PILLARS

EDUCATION

We believe education should do more than inform; it should transform.

Our curriculum begins with identity exploration and purpose discovery, helping students understand who they are, what drives them, and how to channel that into real-world impact. From there, we equip them with essential life and business skills: financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, goal setting, professionalism, and problem-solving. We meet students where they are, empower them to dream bigger, and give them the tools and mindset to grow into leaders of their own lives and futures.

SOCIAL CAPITAL

Ideas thrive in community, not isolation.

Many young people don’t lack ambition they lack access. That’s why we embed social capital into every part of our programs. Through our near-peer, youth-teaching-youth model, students connect with mentors who look like them, understand their experiences, and inspire new possibilities. We surround students with role models, entrepreneurial leaders, and peers who affirm their identities and expand their vision for what’s possible. Our mentorship network and community events give students access to doors once closed making them feel seen, supported, and ready to walk through them.

FUNDING

We invest in belief and back it with real dollars.

Through our Dream Dollars system and pitch-day events, students receive tangible funding to launch and grow their ideas. From lemonade stands to clothing lines to tech startups, we help turn imagination into action. Along the way, students learn to manage money, price products, and experience the realities of entrepreneurship. More importantly, they learn to see themselves as creators, problem-solvers, and value-builders; gaining the confidence and financial independence that can last a lifetime.

WHAT WE STAND FOR