SCHOOLS AND YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Teaching the next generation to build businesses, earn money, and lead.
Exposure Changes Everything
As a teenager, Gilberto saw how fast life can go the wrong way. What turned it around was exposure: people who showed him what was possible and gave him a real shot.
Now he does that for young people across Alabama. He teaches students how to turn an idea into a business, make their own money, and lead with confidence.
Programs and Partnerships
Start Smart, A.G. Gaston Business Institute
Gilberto trains middle and high school students to start and run their own businesses. They learn how to find an idea, set a price, sell, and manage the money.
GEAR UP Summer Program, University of Montevallo
Gilberto taught high school students who each started a business over one summer. Then he gave two of them paid summer internships with his company.
Grow with Google, Alabama Digital Coach
For four years, Gilberto was Alabama’s Grow with Google Digital Coach. He trained more than 8,000 entrepreneurs, including free workshops at the Birmingham Public Library.
Birmingham Education Foundation
Helped build career-focused lessons for Birmingham students.
Operation HOPE, Business in a Box
Mentored new and young business owners through Operation HOPE’s Business in a Box program.
A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Club
Served on the board, helping young people get the support and exposure they need.
A.G. Gaston Conference
Moderated the Young Professionals Panel at the 2026 A.G. Gaston Conference.
What Students Learn
- How to turn an idea into a business
- How to set a price, sell, and talk to customers
- How to manage money and track profit
- How to use AI and online tools the right way
- How to pitch with confidence
- Leadership, responsibility, and follow-through
Ways to Work Together
Student Workshops and Business Camps
Hands-on sessions where students pick an idea, build a simple plan, and pitch it.
Keynotes
Assemblies, graduations, and youth conferences. Real talk about choices, money, and what it takes to win.
Teacher and Staff Training
Practical training on entrepreneurship, marketing, and using AI tools the right way.
Summer and After-School Programs
Multi-week programs where students launch a real business by the end.
Mentorship and Internships
Partnerships that connect students with real work and real business owners.
Watch: How You Can Be a Good Mentor
Gilberto’s TEDxBirmingham talk on what real mentorship looks like.
Schools and Youth FAQs
What ages does Gilberto work with?
Middle school, high school, and college students, plus young adults who are starting out.
Can the program be built around our school?
Yes. Every program is shaped around your students, your schedule, and your goals.
Does Gilberto speak at youth conferences and assemblies?
Yes. He speaks at schools, colleges, youth conferences, and community events.
What does a program cost?
It depends on the size and length of the program. Tell us what you need and we will share options.
Do you work with schools outside Birmingham?
Yes. Gilberto is based in Birmingham, Alabama, and works with schools and organizations across the state and beyond.
Bring Gilberto to Your School
Tell us about your students, your goals, and your dates. Choose “Schools and Education” in the form.