Empowering Youth Economics

EYE Financial Literacy Program

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B.E.S.T.’s Empowering Youth Economics Program uplifts Black youth in Colorado through financial literacy, mentorship, and real-world learning that builds confidence and leadership.


This five-year journey guides students from 8th grade to high school graduation, teaching them to budget, save, invest, and build wealth through financial literacy education and mentorship from professionals and entrepreneurs.


EYE bridges economic gaps by equipping youth with financial skills, and career readiness—fostering independence and community impact.

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A young man is opening a locker in a school hallway.

The program includes:


  • Financial Literacy Training
  • College/Career Planning
  • Transformational Experience
  • Internships/Apprenticeships/Mentorships
  • More!


This program is free to student participants but requires a firm commitment from the parents and youth.


The purpose of EYE is to be a powerful resource to foster fundamental fiscal intelligence and a beacon for young entrepreneurial prowess.

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EYE is to be a beacon

To address youth poverty in Denver Metro's black community, the Black Economic Success Trust (B.E.S.T.) launched Empowering Youth Economics (EYE). Studies confirm disparities across sectors for black youth in Colorado. To combat structural factors affecting BIPOC youth, early critical thinking and financial literacy skills are essential. EYE intervenes from junior high through high school, partnering youth with mentors and resources to promote equity into adulthood.

EYE's culturally-responsive approach to financial literacy and mentorship is designed for black youth in Colorado, tackling the rapidly increasing youth poverty rate. Statistics show nearly 1 in 3 BIPOC individuals in Colorado live in poverty, perpetuating a cycle that EYE aims to break. Poverty impacts BIPOC and rural communities hardest, with severe effects on black people in Colorado.

By removing barriers to culturally-resonant financial literacy, BEST changes potential outcomes, preventing the long-term effects of youth poverty on BIPOC communities. Empowering Youth Economics transforms lives, encouraging reinvestment in communities and embodying the principle "Each one, teach one."

EYE dismantles institutional barriers by providing free laptops and guided mentorship as part of the 2028 Project. Accessible through technology stipends and the Affordable Connectivity Program, EYE offers in-person and virtual financial literacy cohorts.

Your financial support will go directly to the EYE program.

A group of young people are sitting around a table looking at a laptop computer.