Our Story
Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, Emma was immersed in the world of business from a young age. Whether sitting beside her parents as they managed their business or watching the joy and stress that came with every client, she developed not only a love for business, but an understanding of how much dedication, sacrifice, and resilience it requires. But it wasn’t until Emma began traveling, across dozens of countries, that she noticed something deeper. Small businesses everywhere were struggling with the same obstacles, lack of access, limited resources, and few connections to keep their passion alive.
From market stalls in Asia to street vendors in Europe and community shops in her own hometown, Emma saw the same challenge repeat itself of incredible ideas and hardworking owners, with little support to truly grow. She started to ask herself, “How can I bridge the gap in limited resources to create lasting opportunities for small business owners?”
That question became the spark for Global Business Connect. Emma founded the nonprofit to unite passionate youth leaders from around the world with small business owners who need support, not just financially, but through strategy, design, mentorship, and community engagement. Our vision is to redefine how we support small business, one that isn’t limited by borders or age, but instead built on collaboration, creativity, and care.
Today, Global Business Connect is more than just a nonprofit. It’s a growing network of youth ambassadors, entrepreneurs, and changemakers working together to create opportunity where it’s needed most. Together, this movement is proving that youth-led action can drive real-impact and that no small business, no matter where it’s located, is left without a chance to thrive.
Through every project, partnership, and connection, we’re building more than just business solutions, we’re cultivating a movement of youth-driven impact, sustainable growth, and global collaboration that continues to expand and take root in communities around the world.
Our Founder
Executive Director and Founder Emma Patel
Hi! I’m Emma Patel, a high school senior from Florida with a strong commitment to business, global connection, and empowering young leaders. Inspired by my travels and experiences within my own community, I founded Global Business Connect to support small entrepreneurs around the world through innovative pathways and youth-led programs designed to drive sustainable growth and opportunity.