Buzz on Biz was conceived and implemented by Urban Solutions in response to a need identified by a task force of Western Addition community-based organizations. Addressing the lack of opportunities for African American youth in the district, entrepreneurship training was determined to be a crucial way to empower youth. By preparing disadvantaged youth with business and entrepreneurial skills, we are helping pave the way for future business owners and community leaders from low-income communities to participate in the economic and cultural development of their neighborhood.

For three years, from 2006 through 2009, Urban Solutions operated the program in the Western Addition, and served more than 100 youth. In December we transferred this successful program and its management to the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center.

Classes were two hours each week after school, focusing on advanced concepts of entrepreneurship through greater emphasis on experiential learning. Class sessions alternated between classroom teaching and hands-on learning. Working in teams, the students were guided through developing a business plan for their concept business and presented the plans in a public forum at the conclusion of the program.

Students learned fundamental concepts and skills necessary for success in the real world. The curriculum covered the full scope of entrepreneurial training: from business concept development, entry strategies and marketing, to growing one’s own business. The guiding principle of the program was to introduce young people to the concepts of small business ownership. At the same time, Buzz on Biz helped youth to develop soft skills, such as writing, presenting, and interpersonal tools that will contribute to their success in any endeavor.

To learn more about the youth entrepreneurship program, contact the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center.

Thank you to the funders who supported the Buzz on Bizz Program: AT&T, Bank of America,the Cathay Bank Foundation, Charles Schwab, the Charles Schwab Foundation, the Gap Foundation, the Handlery Foundation, HSBC North America, the Louis R. Lurie Foundation, the Mayor's Office of Community Justice, Northern California Grantmakers Summer Youth Project, the San Francisco Giants, Starbucks, and Sundance Cinemas.

Thank you also to our community partners: Mo' Magic, the West Bay Conference Center, Jones Memorial United Methodist Church, Booker T. Washington Community Center, Buchanan YMCA, and the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center.