The latest news of big foundation funding to create tomorrow’s workforce comes from Virtual Enterprises International (VEI), which is starting a VE Junior Ventures Career Academy for middle schoolers to immerse them in hands-on entrepreneurial and work-based learning experiences. The funding for this expanding effort will come from the New York Life Foundation, which will invest $1 million over four years to support the Academy.

We’ve featured the New York Life Foundation’s work before, particularly its massive support for childhood bereavement—helping children navigate the difficult terrain of loss and the accompanying emotional adjustments. With this new grant, the foundation is more focused on youth educational enhancement rather than emotional support, and this time it is filling a critical niche in the path of young people into productive careers.

via Why is the New York Life Foundation Investing in Young Entrepreneurs? – Inside Philanthropy: Fundraising Intelligence – Inside Philanthropy.