Office of Business Opportunity
OBO Press Release
City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity and District F Launch the Inspiring Future Founders Initiative
July 17, 2025 -- The City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with District F Councilmember Tiffany Thomas for the Future Founders Initiative. This enriching program is specifically designed for young residents of District F, aged 10 to 14, and will run over a week from July 28, 2025, to August 1, 2025. The initiative strives to cultivate a robust entrepreneurial mindset among participants, encouraging them to explore their creativity, embrace independence, and take calculated risks. Young innovators will immerse themselves in a series of interactive workshops and engaging activities tailored to develop essential skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and business savvy.
“We firmly believe that by equipping our youth with practical entrepreneurial skills, we can significantly impact their individual futures and enhance the overall economic landscape of our city,” remarked Cylenthia Hoyrd, Director of the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity. “The Future Founders Initiative is a gateway to unlocking the hidden potential of our young people and inspiring the next wave of entrepreneurs and innovators right here in Houston.”
“Programs like this give our kids the tools to lead, create, and contribute in meaningful ways”, expressed by City of Houston Council Member, Tiffany D. Thomas- District F, “from the classroom to the community.”
Program Highlights Include:
**Innovative Startup Project:** Participants will embark on an exciting journey where they will have the unique opportunity to brainstorm, design, and develop their very own business concepts. Through a series of structured, hands-on exercises, they will learn to identify market opportunities, understand customer needs, and draft a simple yet effective business model. By the end of the week, each participant will showcase their creativity in a polished pitch presentation, enhancing not only their public speaking skills but also their understanding of how to present business ideas compellingly.
**Collaborative Learning and Teamwork:** The initiative places a strong emphasis on group dynamics and collaboration. Through team-based projects, young entrepreneurs will learn how to effectively communicate, lead discussions, and work collaboratively towards common goals. These interactive projects will encourage participants to brainstorm collectively, share diverse ideas, and develop creative solutions -- skills that are indispensable for any successful entrepreneur in today's interconnected world.
**Interactive Educational Workshops:** The program features an array of captivating workshops that address key entrepreneurial topics, including financial literacy, the fundamentals of marketing, outstanding customer service, and the intricacies of product development. Each workshop is designed with engaging, hands-on activities and real-life scenarios, making learning not just informative but also enjoyable and directly applicable to their future endeavors.
**Mentorship and Networking Opportunities:** Participants will receive invaluable one-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and seasoned business professionals. These mentors will provide personalized guidance, helping youth navigate challenges, refine their innovative ideas, and establish meaningful connections with influential figures in Houston’s dynamic business community. This mentorship aspect is designed to empower participants and provide them with the insider knowledge and confidence needed to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.
For those eager to join the Future Founders Initiative, be sure to register via this link: https://houstonobo.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9H9bOFFWiu85PaS.
Please note that applications will close on July 23, 2025.
About the Office of Business Opportunity:
The City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity (OBO) is passionately committed to the growth and prosperity of small businesses throughout Houston. OBO offers a comprehensive range of programs and services—including business certifications, capacity-building initiatives, and vital networking opportunities—all aimed at fostering sustainable economic development within our community.
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611 Walker Street, Seventh Floor
Houston, TX 77002
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