Chicago, IL — [February 11, 2025] — The Gray Matter Experience (TGME) is excited to announce a dynamic partnership with Chicago French Press (CFP), blending entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact. This collaboration is designed to empower young changemakers through hands-on experience in the food and beverage industry. Through this partnership, students from TGME’s entrepreneurial programs will have the opportunity to intern at Chicago French Press, gaining invaluable business skills, mentorship, and real-world exposure to brand-building and product development.
As part of the program, students will conceptualize, develop, and pitch their own specialty drinks. The winning beverages will be added to the Chicago French Press’ menu, giving students a tangible, real-world opportunity to see their ideas come to life. A percentage of each drink’s sales will be donated to The Gray Matter Experience, directly supporting entrepreneurial education for Black youth.
This initiative builds on the success of past TGME interns, whose drinks have already made their mark at Chicago French Press. Customers can currently enjoy Yaritza’s Tres Leches Latte and Brittany’s Berry Mint Lemonade, available until the beginning of Spring. two beverages that showcase the creativity and ingenuity of young entrepreneurs.
Beyond product design, students will also take part in an immersive field trip to Chicago French Press, where they will meet Founder & CEO Kris Christian, learn about branding, and gain firsthand insight into what it takes to run a successful business. Through this experience, students will see how their ideas, skills, and creativity can translate into real-world impact.
"Gray Matter gave me an amazing opportunity to work with a business that let me be free and creative. This program has helped me prove to myself that I can do things, I’m creative and I can make something."– Yaritza Vargas, TGME Alum
This collaboration doesn’t just end with product creation; students will gain hands-on experience in business operations, branding, and entrepreneurship, helping them develop skills that can be applied to future career opportunities. Whether they pursue entrepreneurship, marketing, or another industry, this experience will provide a strong foundation for their professional growth
“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 space to create, learn, and see their ideas come to life in a real business setting.” – Kris Christian, CEO & Founder, Chicago French Press
“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 Durette, Entrepreneurship Program Director, The Gray Matter Experience
The partnership officially launches this month, with student-created drinks now available at Chicago French Press. Community members are encouraged to support the initiative by purchasing a featured drink and contributing to the empowerment of young Black entrepreneurs.
To learn more about our programs created for young leaders and visionaries visit our Program page www.graymatterexperience.com/programs
