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Youth Conference JOLTcon Sparks Innovation and Fuels Small Business Dreams in Baton Rouge

Updated: Mar 6



BATON ROUGE, LA – JOLTcon, the innovative youth conference by The Futures Fund and The Walls Project, is set to empower and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Baton Rouge with its two-part series on March 23rd and April 27th at Southern University. This free event, designed for high school students, brings together renowned guest instructors including the Louisiana Small Business Development Center of Southern University, Orhan McMillan, and Kirsten Roberson of KRO Management LLC.



Empowering Youth in Small Business Development:

JOLTcon is not just a conference; it's a catalyst for small business dreams. With a mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, this powerful event equips high school students with the skills and knowledge crucial for small business development. Participants will dive deep into the realms of technology, creative arts, and business planning to emerge as the next wave of successful entrepreneurs.



Event Highlights:

  • Dates: March 23rd and April 27th

  • Location: T.T. Allain, Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA

  • Theme: Creating NextGen Innovators

  • Free Lunch: Included for Registered Participants

  • Competition: April 27th - Chance to win $500 cash prize for the best business pitch

  • Special Opportunity: Non-competitors on April 27th can work with KRO Management to register their LLC from start to finish.



March 23rd Event: Small Business Skill Development

The March 23rd event is a gateway to small business development. Teens in grades 9-12 will delve into the intricacies of developing and pitching their business concepts. Through workshops led by industry experts, participants will gain valuable insights into transforming ideas into viable businesses. This foundational knowledge is essential for those looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.


April 27th Competition: Fostering Entrepreneurs

The competition on April 27th is not just about winning a cash prize; it's about fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. Participants will showcase their small business ideas, honed through the skills acquired in the previous event, to a panel of esteemed judges. This platform is a launchpad for young entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality.


JOLTcon: Shaping Tomorrow's Business Leaders

JOLTcon takes pride in its commitment to shaping tomorrow's business leaders. By providing a comprehensive curriculum that covers not only creative arts and technology but also the essentials of business planning, taxation, insurance, and legal aspects, JOLTcon stands as a formidable force in youth small business development.


Why JOLTcon Matters for Youth Entrepreneurship:

  • Hands-On Training: Practical skills that go beyond theory, preparing teens for real-world challenges.

  • Mentorship: Access to industry experts who have successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape.

  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, forming valuable partnerships.

  • Idea Investment: The chance to win a $500 cash prize to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.


JOLTcon isn't just an event; it's a movement, jolting the spark of innovation and entrepreneurship in the hearts of the youth.


For more information or to register for JOLTcon, visit thewallsproject.org/joltcon  or contact Helena Williams at helena@thewallsproject.org.


JOLTcon Spring 2024 is made possible through the support of NexusLA, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, Southern University and generous donations from individuals.

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