A dynamic collaboration between financial technology company SoFi, Grammy-nominated artist Kelsea Ballerini, and tnAchieves aims to revolutionize the way college students approach financial independence. With a $2 million investment, this initiative offers grants and resources to Tennessee-based students, helping them secure their futures through financial education and career preparation. Additionally, SoFi extends opportunities for young Tennesseans aged 18-24 to earn free stock and participate in wealth-building programs. This partnership underscores SoFi's commitment to fostering economic empowerment across underserved communities.
The Rising Stars Program is designed to provide comprehensive support, from one-on-one coaching and financial aid to specialized curricula on budgeting, investing, and long-term financial planning. By partnering with CMA Fest as its presenting sponsor, SoFi also offers exclusive benefits to festival attendees, including cash-back rewards, lounge access, and last-minute ticket opportunities. Together, these efforts reflect SoFi’s broader mission of building generational wealth and supporting community growth.
Financial Independence Through Education and Mentorship
SoFi’s Rising Stars Program focuses on equipping Tennessee students with tools for financial success post-graduation. The program provides over $500,000 in grants, enabling participants to expand their COMPLETE initiatives aimed at achieving financial autonomy. Key elements include personalized coaching, financial assistance for essential needs like housing and textbooks, and an educational curriculum centered around practical money management skills.
This transformative initiative ensures that students receive holistic support tailored to their unique circumstances. For instance, recipients gain access to mentors who guide them toward high-skill, high-wage careers while addressing immediate financial barriers such as food insecurity or lack of technological resources. Furthermore, the curriculum emphasizes strategic financial practices, empowering students to invest early and build lasting wealth. Ballerini highlights the importance of starting small but consistently during one’s twenties, ensuring long-term benefits over time. By integrating mentorship with tangible resources, the program fosters both personal and professional development among participants.
Community Engagement Through Strategic Partnerships
In addition to the Rising Stars Program, SoFi leverages its role as the presenting partner of CMA Fest to engage broader audiences in financial literacy. Through SoFi Plus memberships, festival attendees enjoy perks ranging from cash-back rewards on purchases to exclusive lounge access. These offerings not only enhance the festival experience but also introduce users to SoFi’s diverse suite of financial services. Moreover, last-minute ticket drops cater specifically to loyal members, reinforcing the value proposition of joining SoFi Plus.
Beyond entertainment events, SoFi collaborates with influential figures such as Kelsea Ballerini, Jayson Tatum, Venus Williams, Justin Herbert, and Cameron Brink to amplify its message of generational wealth creation. Each partnership brings distinct perspectives and networks, expanding SoFi’s reach into various communities. Collectively, these collaborations demonstrate SoFi’s dedication to creating inclusive pathways for financial empowerment. Whether through grant programs, stock incentives, or event sponsorships, SoFi continues to redefine how individuals interact with personal finance, ultimately contributing to stronger, more resilient communities nationwide.