Fentress County, TN, The Biz Foundry’s youth division, My Big Idea, is inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs right here in Fentress County. The program has officially launched in Allardt Elementary, South Fentress Elementary, and York Institute, bringing hands-on business education directly into the classroom.
Led by Jessica Hinton, Youth Entrepreneurship Director for The Biz Foundry, the My Big Idea program equips students with practical skills to imagine, plan, and launch their own small businesses. Through engaging lessons and real-world projects, students are learning how to:
- Identify problems they can solve in their communities
- Develop creative business ideas
- Understand how to raise funds and manage finances
- Provide excellent customer service
- Deliver a confident 2–3 minute business pitch
“This program gives our students the chance to see that they don’t have to wait until they’re adults to make an impact,” said Hinton. “They already have the creativity, courage, and ability to start something of their own. We just help them build the foundation.”
Jessica Hinton, My Big Idea Program Coordinator, The Biz Foundry
Fentress County Youth Pitch Competition – February 7th, 2026
The program will culminate in the Fentress County Youth Pitch Competition on Friday, February 7th, 2026, at the Fentress County Courthouse. Students will take the stage to present their business ideas before a panel of local judges, competing for prizes and recognition in categories such as Most Innovative Idea and Best Business Potential.
The event will be open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend, cheer on the students, and witness the entrepreneurial spirit growing within Fentress County.
About The Biz Foundry
The Biz Foundry is a nonprofit entrepreneurship center based in Cookeville, TN, dedicated to supporting business growth across the Upper Cumberland region. Its My Big Idea youth program partners with schools and community organizations to teach students essential business and leadership skills that prepare them for real-world success.
For more information, contact:
Jessica Hinton
Youth Entrepreneurship – My Big Idea Program Coordinator, The Biz Foundry
951-395-9447
Jessica@mybigidea.org
Follow along on Facebook: My Big Idea Youth Entrepreneur Program
