Marsha Blackburn
04/08/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/08/2026 12:28
Blackburn, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Young Entrepreneurs
Blackburn, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Young Entrepreneurs
April 8, 2026
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced legislation to connect students enrolled in 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) with mentors from the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) to develop their professional skills in entrepreneurship.
CCLC is a federal program that supports local afterschool and summer learning programs for students with high potential at under-resourced schools. SCORE's more than 11,000 volunteer counselors - working or retired business owners - provide business advice to entrepreneurs. Research has shown that exposure to entrepreneurship during childhood increases the likelihood of becoming an entrepreneur as an adult.
"Tennessee is known for having a robust creative and entrepreneurial community," said Senator Blackburn. "The 21st Century Entrepreneurship Act would ensure that Tennessee's entrepreneurs of tomorrow have someone to guide them today by encouraging entrepreneurship that results in the creation of new jobs, fosters economic growth, and improves quality of life."
"A child's zip code shouldn't determine whether they are exposed to the mentors that can help them develop the skills to become innovators and business owners," said Senator Cortez Masto. "This legislation will help young entrepreneurs in every corner of the Silver State get the advice and training they need to drive Nevada's future."
BACKGROUND
- The 21st Century Entrepreneurship Act would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to develop an entrepreneurship curriculum for CCLC and encourage SCORE volunteers to partner with local chapters to provide training and mentorship.
- It would also amend the Small Business Act and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to ensure these partnerships fall within the mission of each agency.
Click here for bill text.
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