Tulsa Nonprofit Builds Up Next Generation Of Problem Solvers

A Tulsa nonprofit is launching a new school program with the goal of inspiring students to become entrepreneurs.

The course takes kids through a semester-long class giving them some tools, resources and connections to make their own business ideas happen.  

Building up the next generation of problem solvers is the focus of the first program launched by the non-profit, North Tulsa Complex. 

"How can I solve this problem? Is there a solution? And if there is, how can I make a business out of it?" said North Tulsa Complex Founder Kristin Towles.

Once a week, a group of non-profit volunteers works with 32 third through fifth graders at Tulsa's Drexel Academy.

"What I am looking at when I see these kids in the Youth Entrepreneurship Program, is 32 small business owners in the next 10-15 years," said Towles. "We have got this book Kidpreneurs, it is a really cool because it is a super thin book but it takes these big ideas about entrepreneurship, how to run a business, how to promote a business and it puts them into these bite sizes, simplified, examples."

Each week the kids work with the same mentor and talk all things entrepreneurship.

"The type of mentor that would encourage these young people to dream,” said North Tulsa Complex mentor James Banks.

They watch videos from local business owners who are teaching these kids the tricks of the trade.

"All of our presenters that are speaking to the kids are entrepreneurs and leaders in the African-American community- I learned that that was really important after doing work with 100 Black Men of Tulsa,” Towles said. “I am so glad I had the opportunity to work with them and bring that element into this program.”

The program was able to continue virtually to stay safe during COVID-19. The whole point is to teach these kids they have everything they need to achieve their dreams, including a team of people who are cheering them on.

"When you hear the phrase ‘We need a seat at the table,’ that means that you are going to somebody else and asking them for permission, asking them for clearance, to do what you need done in your life, in your community- North Tulsa Complex is building our own table," said North Tulsa Complex Founding Board Member Richard Zobon Baxter.

To learn more about the non-profit, visit their website here.