The Empower716 Young Entrepreneurs of Color Program honors young entrepreneurs, ages 25 and under at the time of nomination submission, who reside in Western New York, Must identify as a youth/young adult of color (e.g., Black or African diaspora, Latino, Asian, Indigenous, Middle Eastern, or other historically underrepresented communities). Nominations for the Honoree Cohort can only be submitted by community members, teachers, mentors, or others who personally know the nominee; self-nominations and previous winners are not accepted. Selected honorees will receive mentorship, business development support, and professional branding, and must participate in program sessions and attend the awards event. Nominations are due by October 22, 2025, and honorees will be notified the first week of January following a thorough selection process. This program is designed to celebrate and support young entrepreneurs committed to making a difference in Western New York.