NFTE Volunteer

Frequently Asked Questions

What does NFTE do?
The National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE, pronounced “nifty”) provides entrepreneurship education programs to young people from low-income communities.
NFTE’s strategy for achieving its mission is:
• Creating engaging, experiential curricula and tools to improve academic, business and life skills
• Training and supporting teachers and youth professionals
• Partnering with schools, community-based organizations, and post-secondary institutions
• Offering volunteers meaningful opportunities that connect students to real world experiences
• Linking the educational and business worlds in the classroom and beyond
• Providing services to program graduates
• Demonstrating outcomes of entrepreneurship education through research
• Building public awareness to expand entrepreneurship education

How much time do I need to volunteer for NFTE?
The time requirements vary depending on the opportunity you are interested in. From a one-time commitment of an hour to 2-3 hours a month, we likely have an opportunity that will fit your schedule.

Where are there programs where I can volunteer?
NFTE New England has programs across Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.

What do I need to volunteer?
Only knowledge of business concepts and practices, as well as enthusiasm, are necessary. All volunteers will need to fill out a volunteer application, including a criminal background check.

How does the process work?
Once we have received your volunteer application, a NFTE staff member will be in contact with you to schedule your visit. You will receive information to help you prepare – including directions to the site, contact information for the NFTE teacher, and tips to make the most out of your volunteer session. Additionally, NFTE staff and board members are always available to answer your questions and make your volunteer experience easy and enjoyable.

I loved the time I spent with NFTE students – now what?!
NFTE is always looking for volunteers – you can continue your involvement with a specific school, volunteer your time at another NFTE site, or introduce NFTE to a friend. You can also attend NFTE events, such as our annual Business Plan Competitions – where you can see our best students as present their business to a panel of business and community leaders. Please also consider making a donation to NFTE, so that the benefits of entrepreneurship education can reach more young people in the region!

To learn more about how to get yourself or your business involved, please contact Laura Scarlett at (781) 239-5863 or laura.scarlett@nfte.com.