Building Smarter, Industry-Ready Youth
Music Business Education for Kids & Teens
How to Build, Own, and Win in Music
Music Business Kids of America equips youth with the knowledge, mindset, and real-world skills needed to navigate the music industry responsibly. Through education, career exposure, and entrepreneurship training, we help students understand how creativity connects to ownership, opportunity, and long-term success.
We partner with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to deliver culturally relevant, future-focused music business education for students ages 9–18.
Increasing Access to Music Industry Education
The Industry Book Series by Dāsha Ware continues its national expansion. This innovative music business learning resource is now eligible for integration into public library systems and school libraries, increasing access to structured industry education for students across the states.
Youth-Centered Music Business Curriculum
We develop original, age-appropriate educational resources that introduce students to the business side of music. Our books, lessons, and learning materials are designed for classroom use, home schooling, after-school programs, and independent study—helping students understand careers, contracts, branding, and ownership early.
Programs for Schools & Youth Organizations
We partner with schools, districts, and community organizations to deliver music business education through workshops, enrichment programs, and curriculum integration. Programs are flexible, scalable, and aligned with educational and workforce development goals.
Creating Access to Creative Career Pathways
Music education does not stop at talent—it requires knowledge, guidance, and opportunity. Our programs expand access to creative career pathways by introducing youth to real roles in music, media, and entrepreneurship, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.
MBKA’s 12 Pillars of the Music Industry
A framework for teaching students how the industry actually works
Each pillar represents a core area of the music business students should understand before entering the industry.
1. Creativity
The foundation of the music industry begins with ideas, songwriting, production, and artistic expression.
2. Mindset
Confidence, discipline, and belief in your vision are required to build a career in music.
3. Branding
Artists, producers, and executives must learn how to shape their identity, message, and public image.
4. Marketing
Music needs strategy. Promotion, social media, and storytelling help music reach audiences.
5. Distribution
Understanding how music gets delivered to the world through streaming platforms and digital services.
6. Publishing
Songwriting ownership, royalties, and licensing are key to long-term income.
7. Revenue Streams
The music industry includes many income sources including streaming, touring, merchandise, and licensing.
8. Contracts
Understanding agreements protects creators from exploitation and ensures fair partnerships.
9. Networking
Relationships drive opportunities in the music industry.
10. Technology
Innovation and technology continue to reshape how music is created, distributed, and consumed.
11. Entrepreneurship
Creators should think like business owners and build sustainable careers.
12. Legacy
Success is not just about popularity—it is about impact, influence, and building something that lasts.
These pillars guide the MBKA curriculum and prepare students to become industry-ready creators and leaders.
MBKA’s annual recognition honoring youth ages 9–18 who demonstrate leadership, business intelligence, creative excellence, and a commitment to ownership in the music industry.
Applications Open March 9th for 2026 Class
Where Future Industry Leaders Are Recognized.
Partnership to us is more than collaboration, it’s commitment to the next generation.
What Parents Are Saying…
Our curriculums is brought to life through nonprofit partnerships that create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for young people.
These testimonials highlight what parents observed during their children’s participation—growth in confidence, creativity, and understanding of the music industry.
“With the support from one of MBKA curriculums, we have been able to serve students better than ever.”
— Holly Beckerman, Music & Media Technology Teacher, Cobb County Schools
Contact Us
We welcome conversations with educators, administrators, funders, parents, and community leader.