knowledgeBANK Nashville

Nashville Native Provides Hope, Financial Education for Teens

By: Airielle Vincent and Jailen Leavell

Courtney HaleThis week, we’re shining the spotlight on a Nashville native that calls himself the Chief Hope Dealer. Courtney Hale is a father, mentor, and the founder of KnowledgeBANK. The local start-up group partnered with Mayor David Briley’s Youth Employment Initiative, Opportunity Now, to inspire hope and educate the youth on financial literacy.

Hale is making strides to change the future of financial literacy among young minorities. The start-up has helped more than 500 teens through weekly workshops, texts, and initiatives that help with budgeting. There are many disparities in finance and we need to stress the importance of money management for young people, Hale explained.

The KnowledgeBANK is a tool teens can connect with. The curriculum helps young people with financial goals, including saving for a car, starting a business, or learning about student loans. “The goal for KnowledgeBANK is to be a part of the solution,” Hale said. He wants to make it a norm for teens to learn and talk about money in school. When asked why he’s doing this, Hale said his inspiration comes from his mother.

Educators all around the world are reimagining the classroom and finding a “new normal” during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hale said he’s still helping the community, “converting to a virtual learning setting has worked in the company’s favor.” He’s been able to make a shift and connect with teens online.

Hale graduating from Tennessee State University, where he majored in business. In February, he was recognized for his hard work and selected to receive a 40 Under Forty award from the university.