Mission Statement

To create a platform for all youth to achieve their dreams in the fields of entrepreneurship, education, and personal growth by serving as a catalyst between youth, the business community, and post-secondary opportunities.

Innovative Solutions for Underprivileged Youth

The A-list, a non-profit organization started by college students at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, is redefining how businesses and non-profits collaborate to engage youth. By making business an integral part of youth engagement, we will provide positive opportunities to underprivileged youth and reduce juvenile crime.

Not only will we introduce underprivileged youth to entrepreneurship and teach them employment skills, we will also help them achieve their college dreams and provide youth with the skills they need to accomplish their goals and reach their full leadership and talent potential.

Three Mission Elements

The A-list focuses its work on three key mission elements: entrepreneurship, education, and personal growth.

• Entrepreneurship: By employing teens and having them play an integral role in making business decisions and executing business strategy, the youth will develop a well-rounded understanding of what it means to successfully run a business.
• Education: To help teens succeed in the classroom, we will provide tutors from local community colleges, computers for homework and group projects, and mentors from the business community. Through partnerships with local colleges and universities, we will offer recruitment opportunities and college application assistance.
• Personal Growth: The A-list will provide leadership opportunities for youth within the business and in the community. We will also provide a venue for youth to develop their skills and an outlet for sharing their talent with other youth.