Pilot Program (Pending Launch)
The Program
Noir Culture is preparing to launch its first pilot program, designed for students ages 13–15 who are interested in entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership. The pilot program will run for 13 weeks and will take place either August–October 2026 or August–October 2027 depending on funding availability. This is a completely free program for all students.
During the program, students will work with mentors, participate in workshops, and spend time in creative lab sessions where they develop their own business ideas. Participants will explore how entrepreneurs identify problems, build solutions, create brands, and communicate their ideas to others. Students will be paired with mentors of color working in professional fields such as business, STEM, arts, fashion, sports, politics, healthcare, and more, giving them exposure to a wide range of career pathways. Students will meet with them every Wednesday and be able to connect with them outside of the program with business, life, or school guidance.
Hands On Learning
Throughout the program, students will gain hands-on experience developing a business concept, building prototypes, and learning essential business and leadership skills. Students will also work in a creative lab where they will design and create early 3D models of their products.
Participants will also hear from two young guest speakers who have built their own ventures, one who created a service-based business and another who launched their own product/fashion line, giving students real examples of young entrepreneurs building ideas into reality.
Pitch Competition & Rewards
Students participating in the program will receive a stipend for their time and commitment. The program will conclude with a final pitch showcase where students present their businesses to mentors, community members, and professionals. Three prizes will be awarded during the competition, and the funds will be placed into accounts that students can access in the future for either business development or college-related expenses.
Student
Requirements
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Be 13–15 years old for the entire duration of the program
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Be a resident of Boston, with priority given to students from underserved communities such as Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, Hyde Park, Roslindale, and Jamaica Plain
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Identify as a student of color
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Have a strong interest in entrepreneurship and creativity
Noir Culture Pilot Program Example Overview
August: Foundations, Creativity, and Idea Development
The first month of the program focuses on building community and introducing students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Participants learn what entrepreneurship means, explore examples of successful founders, and begin identifying problems or opportunities they care about.
Students take part in brainstorming sessions, creative exercises, and early business lessons that help them understand the difference between a product, service, and brand. Each student is paired with a mentor who provides guidance throughout the program.
Two dedicated Creative Lab sessions allow students to begin sketching and designing early prototypes of their ideas while learning how creators turn ideas into real concepts through 3D modeling.
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September: Building the Business
During September, students move from early ideas into developing their business concepts. Participants begin creating simple business plans, identifying their target audience, and exploring how businesses generate value.
Workshops during this phase focus on topics such as budgeting, pricing, branding, marketing, and networking. Students refine their prototypes, test ideas, and begin shaping the story behind their brand.
This phase also introduces website building and pitch development, helping students organize their ideas and prepare to present their businesses. Guest speakers from entrepreneurial and creative industries share their journeys and advice with students. The two guest speakers will consist of a Product Developer and a Service Developer.
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October: Pitch Development and Final Showcase
The final month focuses on strengthening students’ presentations and finalizing their business ideas. Participants rehearse their pitches, refine their prototypes, and learn about important topics such as business law and how entrepreneurs sustain their businesses.
Students will also participate in college exploration sessions that introduce them to future pathways after high school, helping them begin thinking about different college options and how higher education can be approached in an affordable way.
The program concludes with the Noir Culture Pitch Showcase, where students present their businesses to a panel of mentors, community leaders, and professionals. This experience gives participants the opportunity to build confidence, practice public speaking, and gain real-world presentation experience.
Ready to Apply?
The Noir Culture Pilot Program is on the way! Applications will open soon for students ages 13–15. To be eligible, you must be within this age range for the entire duration of the 13-week program.
Get ready to
Learn entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership skills
Work with mentors of color from diverse professional fields
Develop your own business ideas in hands-on creative labs
Participate in a pitch showcase with exciting rewards
Stay tuned—your chance to apply is coming soon!