Program Overview
NextGen CEO is a six-week business education course that teaches kids the basics of starting their own business, and what it takes to "be their own boss". Run in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Mid Central Coast, the program encourages students to find or expand on their passion, and create a business out of it. NextGen CEO provides students with a fun and engaging way to learn entrepreneurial skills. By the end of the program, students will have the opportunity to open and operate their own business.
The curriculum is tailored to a sixth-grade learning level and covers six main categories:
- Business Fundamentals
- Cost Models
- Money Management
- Marketing
- Customer Service
- Safety & Food Preparation
Each session includes a video lesson with business leaders as guest speakers, offering real-world insights and inspiration. Students will also have a workbook to complete for each session as they plan their own business.
Join The Next Cohort of NextGen CEO!
The Chamber is excited to partner with the Boys & Girls Club of the Mid Central Coast on our NextGen CEO Program! Details on our next cohort coming soon.
Questions about the program? Contact Yuliana Nelson, Director of Member Programs & Engagement at the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, at yuliana@santamaria.com.
NextGen CEO On Demand Now Available!
Calling all parents! Want to empower your child with essential business skills on your schedule? The NextGen CEO On Demand Program offers the perfect solution. You get to set the pace, and your child still gets the full, exciting experience of launching their business at Launch Day and celebrating with other NextGen CEO's at Graduation!
Program Session Information
NextGen CEO Alumni Network
Are you a NextGen CEO alum who is continuing your business after the NextGen CEO program? Be sure to join our NextGen CEO Alumni Network! This network provides resources on how to successfully continue your business endeavors after the NextGen CEO program, and local opportunities to sell your product to the public!
To learn more and join our network, contact Yuliana Nelson at yuliana@santamaria.com.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available!
Help build the next generation of local entrepreneurs - invest in the NextGen CEO program! Sponsorship opportunities are detailed below. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact Strategic Initiatives Manager Yuliana Nelson at yuliana@santamaria.com.
NextGen CEO Program Sponsors
NextGen CEO is made possible thanks to the generous support of our Chamber Investor Program, and our NextGen CEO program sponsors, who have provided additional financial support so we can make this program available to our local future business leaders at a reduced cost.
