Ingredion has been working with the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) for over three years, with employees volunteering to coach students at Perspectives/IIT Math & Science Academy (MSA). As a result of our ongoing commitment, Ingredion has been honored with the NFTE Midwest Region's Corporate Volunteer of the Year award for the second time, following our initial recognition in 2021.

Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, our employees provided guidance and support in various sessions to students, including a field study experience at our Idea Labs innovation center in Bedford Park, Ill. Our relationship with NFTE was established through our Alliance of Black Employees (ABLE) business resource group due to NFTE's focus on educating students, particularly those in underserved communities, on business and entrepreneurship fundamentals. 

The prestigious award was presented to the Company during NFTE's Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, where Senior Vice President Rob Ritchie served as a guest judge. During the challenge, student teams competed by delivering Shark Tank-style pitches to a panel of sponsors. The winning pitch was selected for a national competition. In addition to the competition, several other student teams presented impromptu pitches in the receiving area.

"We are immensely proud to volunteer for NFTE. Not only does it allow us to engage with our community positively, but the student's energy and enthusiasm are truly inspiring," said Brian Kueber, director of Project Rhodium at Ingredion. "We are excited for the students and deeply honored to be recognized for our efforts."