The seeds of transformation are sown by those who dare to dream and take action. Seedbank stands as a global incubator for students from 6th to 12th grade, providing them with the means to start or expand their journey towards changing the world. More than a simple platform, it is an initiative made to foster innovation and boldness.

At the core of Seedbank lies the selection process, a springboard for future achievements. Teacher Allison Uros explained that "the idea is for projects, in which students are involved, go through a selection and acceleration process so they can be implemented."

As such, the students embark on a meticulously planned journey to refine their ideas and hone their presentation skills. From funding meetings to competitions and accelerator programs, the process prepares them to face any challenge that may arise along the way.

Upon admission, the students unlock a realm of possibilities. Backed by funds and encouraged by seasoned mentors, they embark on a journey of innovation. The opportunity to create and test solutions to global problems comes to life, empowering them and connecting them to a network of brilliant minds ready to collaborate and propel collective progress.

In one of the selected 2023 global projects, handpicked from among the other Avenues campuses based in the U.S. and China, students from the São Paulo campus teach technology to the elderly with the help of teachers and leaders. "They are genuinely interested in knowing how other people from other countries live and age. It's a valuable opportunity for intergenerational exchange," said Carol Prado, language expert at Avenues and one of the teachers heading the project.

According to Larissa, an 11th-year student involved in one of the selected projects, stated that, despite the socio-economic differences, the questions asked by the elderly in Heliópolis are the same as those asked by the Avenues grandparents. "Many of them prefer to go to the bank branch in person because they don’t trust the bank app," she said.

João Pedro, a 11th-year student explained that two types of lessons were learned - professional experience gained from creating and implementing a project and human experience provided by the action. "We learned how to organize an event, at all stages, but above all, what we loved the most was the connection between different generations. I learned patience and empathy in practice," he stated.

A distinctive aspect of Seedbank is the opportunity to be mentored by members of our parent communinty. For André Martins, a capital markets executive and Avenues parent, being involved as a mentor was an opportunity to share insights about entrepreneurship and investing in startups. "The digital education project for the elderly needs to be continued because digital exclusion is a real issue," he said, referring to the initiative he worked on. André also underscores the importance of merging technical skills with soft skills, such as empathy and leadership. He added that "the best lessons come from execution, from the practical application of ideas."

While students may devote themselves to the theory of entrepreneurship and comprehend the inherent ups and downs, true understanding only comes through practical experience. This incubation experience goes beyond imparting practical skills; it nurtures foundational values such as the courage to confront global challenges, the determination to overcome obstacles, and the spirit of collaboration to make a meaningful impact—all valuable lessons learned.

"It is a project that mirrors real life in many ways. As adults, we know we'll have to take part in selection processes, speak in public and solve problems. That's one of the great aspects of the program: it's a safe way to experience life," explained Clara Prado.