WGN News Highlights How WDB Cares Is Shaping Chicago’s Future Entrepreneurs

Empowering the Next Generation of Chicago Entrepreneurs

Chicago continues to be a hub for innovation and community-driven business. In a recent WGN News segment, viewers were introduced to WDB Cares, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young entrepreneurs build sustainable, long-term businesses.

Founded by business leader Keeana Barber, WDB Cares focuses on legacy entrepreneurship empowering young people to create businesses that last and uplift their communities.

The Mission Behind WDB Cares: Creating Legacy, Not Just Startups

After running her own company for more than a decade, Keeana Barber recognized a gap: young entrepreneurs had passion, but lacked access to mentorship, resources, and real-world business support. WDB Cares was created to close that gap by offering:

• Hands‑on education

• Professional development

• Community support

• Access to capital and services

The goal is simple: equip young founders with the tools to build businesses that thrive for decades.

Legacy Awards Weekend: A Launchpad for Young Founders

One of the organization’s most powerful initiatives is the Legacy Awards Weekend, a three‑day experience designed to accelerate entrepreneurial growth. The weekend includes:

• A high‑impact business conference

• Networking with industry leaders

• Workshops on branding, finance, and scaling

• The prestigious Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Winners receive over $25,000 in cash and professional services, including accounting, marketing, and business consulting — resources that can dramatically change the trajectory of a young business.

Spotlight: Dariyon Wright, Young Entrepreneur of the Year

The 2023 award winner, Dariyon Wright, is the founder of My Generation Needs Me, a youth empowerment organization serving Chicago’s West Side. Through WDB Cares, Wright gained:

• Funding to expand his programs

• Professional services to strengthen his business foundation

• Mentorship that helped him scale his impact

His story reflects the heart of WDB Cares: when young entrepreneurs succeed, entire communities rise with them.

A Growing Movement for Community and Economic Impact

WDB Cares continues to expand its reach through partnerships with organizations like Blue Cross Blue Shield, which supports grants focused on health equity and community wellness. As the organization grows, so does its impact creating a pipeline of young leaders who are ready to build businesses that strengthen Chicago’s neighborhoods for generations.

WDB Cares isn’t just supporting entrepreneurs. It’s building a legacy of economic empowerment, community leadership, and long-term success.

Media Source

Segment: Chicago Organization Supports Future Entrepreneurs   Network: WGN News Original Video: YouTube – WGN News URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKJOp9nlVNs

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