As entrepreneurs, we know the hard work, grit, and faith it takes to build something meaningful. But have you ever stopped to think about the legacy you’re creating?

Your business is more than just numbers and goals—it's a platform to inspire and equip the next generation of entrepreneurs. By teaching and mentoring others, you’re planting seeds that will grow into future businesses, leaders, and communities that honor God.

Think of it like planting a tree. You may not see the full growth today, but with care and intention, what you plant now will bear fruit for years to come. In this blog, I’ll share 5 practical ways to teach the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Why Teaching the Next Generation Matters

Imagine this: You’re climbing a mountain, and as you reach the top, you look back and see others climbing behind you. What do you do? You extend a hand, offer guidance, and help them navigate the path.

This is what teaching the next generation is all about. It’s about sharing what you’ve learned so others can go further, faster, and with greater purpose.

Here’s the truth: Our businesses, successes, and experiences are not just for us. They’re meant to be shared. Just like Jesus taught His disciples and prepared them to carry on His mission, we’re called to do the same with the next generation of leaders.

When you invest in others, you’re creating a ripple effect of positive change—one that glorifies God and impacts the world for years to come.

1. Be a Role Model

"The integrity of the upright guides them." – Proverbs 11:3

The first step in teaching the next generation is simple: Be a role model. Actions speak louder than words, and young entrepreneurs are watching how you live, lead, and make decisions.

Are you leading with integrity? Are you treating others with kindness and respect? Are you showing what it looks like to trust God in your business?

Storytime:
I once had a mentor who made a huge impression on me. It wasn’t just his success that stood out—it was the way he treated everyone with dignity, prayed before decisions, and gave back generously. Watching him taught me more about leadership than any course or book ever could.

Action Step:
Think about the example you’re setting. Is there one area of your leadership or business where you can better reflect your values? Start there.

2. Share Your Story

"Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story." – Psalm 107:2

Your story is one of the most powerful tools you have to inspire the next generation. The lessons you’ve learned—both the successes and the failures—can provide hope and guidance to those just starting their journey.

Young entrepreneurs need to know the truth: Success doesn’t happen overnight, and every journey comes with challenges. Sharing your story shows them that it’s okay to fail, as long as they keep trusting God and moving forward.

Storytime:
I once mentored a young entrepreneur who was feeling stuck after a big mistake in her business. I shared how one of my biggest failures taught me resilience and deepened my faith. That conversation gave her the encouragement she needed to keep going.

Action Step:
Write down 2-3 key lessons from your entrepreneurial journey. Think about how you can share those lessons with someone who needs encouragement.

3. Teach Biblical Principles

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." – Proverbs 16:3

Teaching the next generation isn’t just about sharing business tips—it’s about instilling values that last. As Christian entrepreneurs, we have the opportunity to teach not just the “how” of business, but the “why.”

Here are a few Biblical principles to share:

• Integrity: “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with Him.” – Proverbs 11:1
• Stewardship: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” – Luke 16:10
• Generosity: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35
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Action Step:
When mentoring someone, weave Biblical principles into your advice. For example, if they’re struggling with a tough decision, encourage them to pray and seek God’s wisdom first.

4. Provide Opportunities for Growth

"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." – Proverbs 27:17

Teaching isn’t just about talking—it’s about giving others the chance to learn through experience.

Think about how you can create opportunities for the next generation to grow. This could look like:

• Offering internships or shadowing opportunities.
• Delegating meaningful tasks to young team members.
• Encouraging them to lead a small project or contribute ideas.
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Storytime:
I once had an intern who was full of potential but lacked confidence. I gave her the chance to lead a small project. It wasn’t perfect, but she learned so much and gained the courage to take on even bigger challenges. Today, she’s running her own business!

Action Step:
Think about one way you can create a growth opportunity for someone in your business or community this week.

5. Pray for Them

"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." – James 5:16

Finally, the most important thing you can do for the next generation is to pray for them.

Pray for their wisdom, courage, and faith. Pray that God will guide their steps and use their businesses for His glory. And pray for yourself, that God will give you the wisdom to lead and teach well.

Action Step:
Make it a habit to pray regularly for the young entrepreneurs in your life. You might not always see the results, but God is working behind the scenes in ways you can’t imagine.

A Quick Recap

Here are 5 ways to teach the next generation of entrepreneurs:

1. Be a Role Model: Lead with integrity and let your actions inspire others.

2. Share Your Story: Use your journey—successes and failures—to encourage others.

3. Teach Biblical Principles: Instill values like integrity, stewardship, and generosity.

4. Provide Opportunities for Growth: Give others the chance to learn through real-world experience.

5. Pray for Them: Lift them up in prayer and trust God to guide their path.

Final Thoughts

When you teach and mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs, you’re not just building businesses—you’re building legacies. You’re planting seeds that will grow into God-glorifying leaders who serve their communities and impact the world.

So, who can you invest in today? Start small, stay faithful, and remember that the work you’re doing now has eternal significance.

Become an IBAM Impact Partner here: https://www.ibam.org/impact-members