Atlanta Nonprofit Bridges the Startup Funding Gap for High Schoolers

Most Georgia high schoolers graduate without learning to read a term sheet or file an LLC, a disparity that often stifles potential in low-income and refugee communities. Kubby Bhatia, a student at The Westminster Schools, launched NEST—New Entrepreneurs Shaping Tomorrow—to dismantle these systemic hurdles. The organization offers free seminars on everything from 3D prototyping to financial modeling, pairing practical education with direct investment.

The program’s impact is already visible in ventures like StockSmart, an inventory software startup developed by student Halelulya Tesfamariam. After securing $2,500 in seed funding through a NEST competition, Tesfamariam moved his concept from a mere idea to a live business. This model mirrors professional venture ecosystems, where participants refine their pitches before a panel of judges for a chance at grants reaching $5,000.

To date, the nonprofit has engaged over 70 students and facilitated the development of 14 student-run companies. With registration now open for the next cycle, the organization is looking to scale its reach beyond Georgia into Florida. By funding essentials like domains and materials, NEST ensures that students retain full ownership of their intellectual property while gaining the professional guidance necessary to navigate the early stages of business ownership.