BUILD.org Celebrates Two and a Half Decades of Inspiring Young Entrepreneurs Across America

BUILD Celebrates 25th Anniversary with a Visionary Event

On October 7, 2025, BUILD.org, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering under-resourced youth through entrepreneurship education, will commemorate a significant milestone: its 25th anniversary. This event, titled BUILD the Future, will take place at The Alexandria in San Carlos, California, gathering community leaders, students, alumni, and Bay Area philanthropists for an engaging evening that showcases the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

A Unique Celebration

Unlike conventional gala events, the BUILD the Future celebration promises to be an interactive experience that immerses guests in the entrepreneurial journey of the students. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with high school students through student-led business expos. They will witness firsthand how young entrepreneurs present their innovative ideas live, reflecting the very essence of what BUILD aims to instill in its participants: an entrepreneurial mindset that encourages problem-solving and creativity.

This year, BUILD will honor Marc Cadieux, President of Silicon Valley Bank, a Division of First Citizens Bank, with the Visionary Award. His 25 years of leadership and commitment to community development and innovation have made a significant impact, aligning perfectly with BUILD's mission. Thais Rezende, the interim CEO, remarked, “When you put real-world problems in young people's hands, they don’t just imagine the future—they build it.” Rezende's statement highlights the core philosophy of the organization, emphasizing the importance of investing in the potential of future generations.

Spotlight on Success

Marc Cadieux reflected on his involvement with BUILD, recalling a memorable experience as a volunteer judge at one of the organization’s early events. He stated, “The students’ creativity and resilience were inspiring, and their entrepreneurial spirit is the same force that drives innovation across industries.” His continuous engagement with BUILD exemplifies how professionals can play a role in nurturing the next generation of innovators.

The BUILD the Future event aims to create an atmosphere of celebration and recognition, showcasing both the achievements of past students and the potential of the current cohort. It serves as a platform for stories of triumph and resilience, reinforcing the significance of community support in helping young people thrive.

An Invite-Only Evening

This exclusive event is not open to the general public but is invite-only, allowing for a more intimate setting where influential figures can interact with students and alumni. Attendees will be treated to live music, a selection of cocktails, and narratives from BUILD alumni that illustrate their journeys and ultimate successes.

The event aims to underscore the collective effort of philanthropists, business executives, community champions, and educators who work collaboratively to empower youth. It is a testament to BUILD's ongoing commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among high school students from under-resourced communities.

The organization has certainly carved a niche in the realm of youth empowerment by not only teaching entrepreneurship but also encouraging young minds to dream big and to act on those dreams confidently. As BUILD.org ventures into another quarter-century, its vision remains steadfast: to build a future where every young person has equal opportunities to succeed through entrepreneurship education.

Media Coverage Invitation

BUILD invites local Bay Area media to attend this special event to highlight the innovative spirit of the students and the community leaders who champion their cause. By covering BUILD the Future, media outlets will play a vital role in bringing awareness to the challenges and triumphs of youth entrepreneurship, and the impact of education in reshaping lives.

In summary, as BUILD.org celebrates its 25th anniversary, it not only marks a journey of success but also lays the foundation for future endeavors aimed at nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs who are poised to change the world.