"No matter what questions or concerns I've had, LaunchNET has always helped me think through the problem or directed me to someone with the expertise I needed, all within a budget-friendly framework for student entrepreneurs." - Bradley Smith
Can you tell us about your business, how you got started, and the mission behind it?
Vinci Learning develops educational products designed to teach students how to manage money in innovative ways. My entrepreneurial journey began during my senior year of high school after realizing I wasn’t taught the necessary financial literacy skills needed for adulthood. This inspired me to create a company with a mission to introduce students to fundamental financial principles before its too late.
How has your experience been with LaunchNET?
LaunchNET has been amazing! Their events and funding have played a crucial role in boosting my confidence when communicating about my business. Additionally, the funds have helped cover those early startup costs that often hinder budget-conscious college students' ambitions.
What has been the most valuable thing you've learned along this journey?
Never give up. I've spent countless nights in solitude working on things I wasn't sure would ever earn me a dollar, but I loved what I was doing, so I persisted. If you do what you love, work hard, and never give up, there will come a time when everything comes together, even if it doesn't seem like it in the moment.
You've hit many milestones as a student entrepreneur, what's one accomplishment you'd like to share?
Winning the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship Spring Pitch Competition for Spring 2023! I’ve competed in countless competitions in my life, but the mentorship, growth, and people I met along the way made this experience stand out amongst the rest.
What are your goals and next steps for the business?
Our goal is to scale Wayz to Wealth, partner with over 50+ schools and organizations this year, and continue expanding our product line. Our long-term goal is to create the best gamified educational simulations in the world.
How can people connect with you and support Vinci Learning and the growth of Wayz to Wealth?
You can connect directly with me on LinkedIn, Bradley Smith, and check out our website, Vinci Learning, to see what's new and check out the Wayz to Wealth board game.