Brewing Opportunity: How The Gray Matter Experience & Chicago French Press Are Empowering Young Entrepreneurs

For young entrepreneurs, exposure to real-world business experiences can make all the difference. Internships and mentorship programs provide critical hands-on learning, helping students translate their skills into tangible success. Yet, research shows that only 6% of Black college students report having had a paid internship, compared to 13% of white students; highlighting a stark disparity in access to professional opportunities.

At The Gray Matter Experience (TGME), we are committed to changing that narrative. That’s why we are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Chicago French Press ; a collaboration designed to equip young Black entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and experience they need to thrive.

Blending Business & Creativity

This partnership is more than an internship; it’s an immersive learning experience where students gain hands-on insight into product development, branding, and business operations. Through this initiative:

• TGME students will creatively design their own specialty drinks in a product innovation challenge.
• The beverages will be featured on Chicago French Press’ menu, allowing students to see their ideas brought to life.
• A percentage of sales from these student-designed drinks will be donated to The Gray Matter Experience, directly supporting our mission.
• Students will attend an exclusive field trip to Chicago French Press to meet CEO Kris Christian, tour the café, and learn about entrepreneurship firsthand.
• Select students will have the opportunity to intern and transition into CFP’s mentorship program, gaining deeper experience in branding, product marketing, and business development.

This initiative builds on the success of past TGME interns like Yaritza and Brittany, whose drinks—Yaritza’s Tres Leches Latte and Brittany’s Berry Mint Lemonade—are currently available at Chicago French Press through the beginning of spring.

Why Mentorship & Internships Matter

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), students who complete internships are 15% more likely to be employed within six months of graduation. Moreover, a study by MENTOR found that young adults with a mentor are 130% more likely to hold leadership positions in their careers.

For Black students, the impact is even more profound. Access to mentorship and paid internships helps bridge the opportunity gap, providing young entrepreneurs with the network, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in competitive industries.

“A huge part of our mission at Chicago French Press goes beyond coffee—it’s about shaping the next generation of product innovators and entrepreneurs. And it truly takes a village. We are honored to partner with The Gray Matter Experience to provide students with a platform to create, learn, and see their ideas come to life in a real business setting.” – Kris Christian , CEO & Founder, Chicago French Press

By giving students real-world experience in a thriving Black-owned business, this partnership isn’t just teaching entrepreneurship—it’s creating future business leaders.

A Call to Action: Support Young Entrepreneurs

We invite the community to support this initiative by visiting Chicago French Press’ University of Chicago location and purchasing one of the student-created drinks. Every sip is a step toward empowering young Black entrepreneurs and investing in the next generation of leaders.

“This partnership represents everything The Gray Matter Experience stands for—empowering young Black entrepreneurs by giving them real-world experiences, mentorship, and the chance to see their ideas come to life. Our students aren’t just learning about business; they’re actively shaping it. We are beyond excited to work with Chicago French Press to create lasting impact.” – Corinne Durrette Entrepreneurship Program Director, The Gray Matter Experience

With initiatives like this, we can create a future where young Black entrepreneurs have the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Learn more about this partnership and how you can partner with us by visiting our website https://www.graymatterexperience.com/partner-programs.