SoFi, tnAchieves, Kelsea Ballerini Launch $2M Tennessee Student Financial Program

SoFi Technologies has partnered with Grammy-nominated artist Kelsea Ballerini and the nonprofit tnAchieves to launch the $2 million Rising Stars Program aimed at fostering financial independence among Tennessee students aged 18-24. The initiative includes over $500,000 in grants to expand tnAchieves’ COMPLETE program, providing students with 1:1 coaching, financial aid for essentials like housing and textbooks, and a specialized financial readiness curriculum covering budgeting, investing, and saving for future milestones. To encourage early investment, SoFi is offering Tennessee residents in this age group a minimum of $5 in free stock, with chances to receive up to $1,000, all without minimum deposits or fees. Ballerini, who emphasizes the importance of early financial education from personal experience, highlights the program's goal to empower young people to take control of their financial futures and achieve their ambitions. This partnership aligns with SoFi's broader Generational Wealth Fund efforts to support underserved communities and promote long-term financial security. The Rising Stars Program aims to reach approximately 60,000 students, helping them prepare for high-skill, high-wage careers through comprehensive financial support and education.