Rebel Ventures

Rebel Ventures is a youth-driven, non-profit food business based in West Philadelphia. It is primarily composed of high school students supported by college and adult mentors, with a mission to create healthy and delicious food options for youth in their community. The organization is designated as a 501(c)(3) and focuses on youth development programs[3].

Mission and Activities

Rebel Ventures aims to increase access to nutritious and tasty food for children while providing high school students with meaningful job experiences. Students are actively involved in every aspect of the business, from developing new products to participating in professional business meetings. They gain experience in areas such as sales, graphic design, and cinematography. The organization works in a commercial kitchen and conducts activities virtually during periods like the pandemic[2].

Products and Impact

One of the notable products developed by Rebel Ventures is Rebel Crumbles, a healthy crumble cake that meets federal nutrition standards. It is served throughout the School District of Philadelphia and Archdiocesan schools, marking the first school food item created entirely by students. This initiative demonstrates the organization's commitment to both entrepreneurial education and community health[1][4].

Funding and Structure

Rebel Ventures derives its revenue primarily from contributions and program services. In recent years, contributions have accounted for over 60% of total revenue, highlighting the organization's reliance on donations. It operates with a lean management structure, with key personnel including an Executive Director and Board Members who contribute through governance and strategic planning[3].

Support and Partnerships

Rebel Ventures is supported by the University of Pennsylvania's Netter Center for Community Partnerships, which helps in fostering the entrepreneurial skills of high school, college, and graduate students through active engagement in real-world business projects[1][4]. The organization's activities have also been showcased at the Science History Institute, highlighting its innovative approach to youth entrepreneurship and healthy food production[4].

[1] https://www.nettercenter.upenn.edu/what-we-do/university-assisted-community-schools/rebel-ventures [2] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/7861472a189a424a93713bb198f2507d-rebel-ventures-philadelphia [3] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/811962970 [4] https://www.sciencehistory.org/visit/exhibitions/what-is-a-rebel/ [5] https://www.instagram.com/rebel_ventures/