Millions of young people enter the job market every year, often without the tools, connections, or training they need.
Skills gaps are increasing, especially in areas like digital tech, green jobs, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
Early access to real-world learning boosts confidence, future earnings, and community impact.
Community-based solutions ensure young people aren’t left behind because of where they live or the resources they lack.
When creating your idea, ask yourself:
| Research the community needs | What financial or job-readiness challenges do young people in underserved areas face? What tools, support, or resources are currently available, and what’s missing? |
| Brainstorm ideas | Think about what would make learning about money or job skills fun, easy, and meaningful for youth. Could your solution feel more like a game, a community, or a real-life experience? |
| Design your solution | Create a product, service, or program that’s simple, engaging, and easy to access. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—what would you want to use if you were in their shoes? |
| Plan for impact | How will you measure success? Can you track who it’s helping, or how much someone learns or earns? How will you make sure the solution actually reaches those who need it most? |
This challenge is about more than job skills; it’s about building bridges to opportunity. Businesses like Fifth Third Bank believe in economic empowerment and helping communities thrive by investing in youth potential. Your idea could be the spark that helps young people gain the knowledge, confidence, and experience they need to shape their futures.
SkillPoint Alliance
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Aboriginal Pastoral Academy
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YouthBuild Global
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"At Fifth Third, we believe empowering young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed is an investment in the future of our communities. Through our partnership with NFTE and the Skills for Success Challenge, we are helping students develop an entrepreneurial mindset, strengthen critical workplace skills, and explore innovative solutions to real-world challenges. We are proud to support programs that inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers."
