From Vision to action: Young entrepreneurs from Puebla build their future

At the heart of the Foundation’s mission lies its commitment to work across the entire wealth spectrum. By bringing together aspiring young entrepreneurs and experienced professionals, the programme fosters two-way learning where knowledge flows both ways. Mentors gain fresh perspectives on grassroots innovation, while participants develop real-world skills — closing the gap in economic opportunity and helping reduce systemic inequalities in wealth distribution.

Over three impactful days, the graduating cohort showcased their ventures, connected with potential investors, and reflected on how far they’ve come — a powerful testament to individual resilience and collective progress.

The celebration began with site visits to thriving businesses launched by graduates of the first cohort. Among them: a women-led craft brewery, a vibrant mosaic arts enterprise, and a handmade crystal workshop — all born from limited resources yet now providing stable livelihoods. These successes stand as living proof of the programme’s lasting impact.

On the second day, 55 young entrepreneurs presented 46 innovative ventures spanning food production, sustainable design, regenerative agriculture, digital services, and social enterprises. Participation increased by 28% compared to the inaugural cohort — a clear sign of deepening community engagement and growing confidence in the programme.

Throughout the incubation period, participants benefited from tailored guidance offered by seasoned professionals and institutions. Notably, representatives from Semillal, a peer-run investment fund created and managed entirely by alumni of Cohort One, played an active role in evaluating new pitches. This emerging ecosystem of self-sustained support marks a pivotal shift toward intergenerational empowerment.

Inspired by the passion and determination on display, several mentors made spontaneous commitments to match-fund investments raised through Semillal — effectively doubling the financial resources available to scale the most promising startups.

Out of an initial pool of 192 applicants, 62 young visionaries successfully completed the full incubation journey. The culmination was a heartfelt gathering attended by families, community leaders, and partner organisations — highlighting the shared responsibility behind every success story.

The experience concluded with a communal meal at Sabor del Fuego, a restaurant founded by a graduate of the first cohort. An Indigenous entrepreneur from Cholula, she transformed her home kitchen into a flourishing culinary venture, now earning five times her original income. Through traditional recipes passed down for generations, she served not only nourishing food but also a profound narrative of cultural pride, perseverance, and transformation.

Emprende Juventud Poblana is more than an incubator — it is a growing movement led by young changemakers determined to build fairer, stronger, and more resilient communities. As applications rise and alumni reinvest their time, energy, and capital into new cohorts, the model demonstrates a simple truth: when young talent is given tools, time, and trust, transformative change takes root.

And through initiatives like these, the Julius Baer Foundation continues to bridge divides — not just in wealth, but in opportunity, voice, and dignity — proving that inclusive growth benefits everyone.