For 30 years, the Taco Bell Foundation has strived to break down barriers to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders. This year, we’re bringing this work to the next level.
We recognize that now more than ever, there are mounting global challenges that require bright ideas and solutions from everyone, especially from the ingenuity of young people. However, those young people must feel seen, heard, and respected to recognize themselves as a changemaker and have access to the right resources and skills to advance these issues.
The Taco Bell Foundation recently announced Ambition Accelerator, a new social impact program designed to help young people seeking to make positive change in their communities and around the world. This program is a partnership with Taco Bell and Ashoka—the largest global network of leading social entrepreneurs.
We call these innovators changemakers, whether they’re tackling global or local issues, big or small. Young changemakers often face significant challenges, whether accessing the right networks or even knowing where to begin to turn their ambitions into reality. So, the Ambition Accelerator was born to provide equitable access to the resources they need to create the future they envision.
“These past 30 years, we have been lucky enough to experience and foster the spectacular ingenuity of young people,” said Jennifer Bradbury, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “They are changing the world right in front of us, and we have the ability and responsibility to help amplify their efforts while also learning from them. The Ambition Accelerator will be the perfect way to do just that.”
So, who can apply? Any resident from the U.S. and all U.S. territories aged 16 to 26 are now welcome to submit their ideas on how they can tackle society’s pressing issues. We encourage Taco Bell fans and restaurant team members to apply as we continue championing ideas from our people and our fans.
When changemakers submit their applications, they will have a chance to receive mentorship and feedback on their projects, grow their skills, and potentially win up to $25,000 in funding, plus a trip to Taco Bell’s headquarters. Applications are being accepted on https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/ambition-accelerator/ now through July 21, 2022.
The Ambition Accelerator program is funded by Yum Brand’s Unlocking Opportunity Initiative.