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Expanding Opportunities for Students

The Student Freedom Initiative (SFI) is stepping up its efforts to provide financial education and investment opportunities for students in historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with the announcement of an expansion plan for its Student Investment Program (SIP). This initiative, backed by a generous $150,000 grant from the Institute of Consumer Money Management and additional philanthropic partners, aims to support students in building generational wealth through structured financial education.

Starting in March 2026, the SIP will extend its reach to 15 HBCUs, accommodating up to 300 students. Each of these participants will receive investment capital of up to $1,000, coupled with valuable educational resources designed to foster long-term investing knowledge, self-assurance, and healthy financial habits. This expansion is set to enhance the program's total funding to $200,000, marking a significant leap forward in financial empowerment for students.

Creating Financial Confidence

Keith B. Shoates, President and CEO of the Student Freedom Initiative, emphasizes the program's mission. "The SIP is essential to our strategy for cultivating generational wealth at our partner institutions. By focusing on education alongside asset ownership, we are providing students with vital tools, capital, and confidence necessary for achieving lasting financial freedom."

The SIP's design removes common obstacles faced by students when they begin investing. By combining investment capital with education and behavioral support, the program encourages participants to remain invested over the long term rather than engage in fleeting speculation. Such a framework is crucial for fostering a mindset that prioritizes gradual wealth accumulation.

Participating Institutions

The 2026 SIP will include students from a diverse list of institutions:

• - Bowie State University
• - Claflin University
• - Clark Atlanta University
• - Dillard University
• - Florida A&M University
• - Hampton University
• - Morehouse College
• - Norfolk State University
• - Prairie View A&M University
• - Southern University and A&M College
• - Texas Southern University
• - Tuskegee University
• - University of Maryland Eastern Shore
• - University of the District of Columbia
• - Xavier University of Louisiana

Trevor Rozier-Byrd, CEO and Founder of Stackwell, echoes these sentiments. He shares, "We created SIP to help students identify as investors in the present moment. By branching out to 15 schools, we are amplifying a model that integrates real capital, authentic market exposure, and genuine education. It’s all about fostering investor identity early and making long-term wealth building accessible."

Prior Success and Continued Growth

The support from the Institute of Consumer Money Management reflects a commitment to overseeing financial capability among HBCU students. Dr. Diane Chen, Founder and Executive Director of ICMM, notes, "We’re pleased to deepen our collaboration with Stackwell to nurture innovative financial literacy programs. Supporting the third year of the Student Investment Program is fundamental in expanding access to practical investing experiences that will shape financial confidence from an early age."

SFI and Stackwell’s Student Investment Program aligns with their larger goals of closing wealth gaps and enhancing financial wellness. The program mirrors a growing acknowledgment of the need for increased engagement in asset ownership, particularly in communities historically excluded from such opportunities.

Application Details

The application process for the 2026 SIP cohort is open from March 23, 2026, until April 17, 2026. Interested students and potential funding partners can learn more about participation opportunities by reaching out via the provided contact details.

About SFI and Stackwell

The Student Freedom Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students by providing equitable resources and support to bridge the wealth gap. Stackwell stands out as an innovative fintech platform that promotes financial wellness and asset ownership, particularly among multicultural emerging wealth builders. Each organization plays a pivotal role in the ongoing mission of fostering a culture of financial responsibility and investment savvy among new generations of students.

The Student Investment Program represents a significant step towards reshaping the financial landscape in higher education, ensuring that students not only dream of wealth but begin building it now.