Grant Cycle 1 is Now LIVE!
About Us
Every great idea starts with curiosity. A question. A spark. A child wondering, ”What if?”
Mason Makes Money Fund was created to support young entrepreneurs at the very beginning of their journey. We believe kids deserve the chance to explore their ideas, learn real-world skills, and grow with confidence—long before doubt tells them they can’t.
Many children are creative and curious, but they lack access to guidance, resources, and encouragement. Without support, great ideas can fade. That’s where we come in.
Our Mission
We exist to positively influence and support the next generation of young entrepreneurs. We provide education, mentorship, and financial resources that help youth build confidence, develop skills, and reach their potential as future business leaders and visionaries.
Our Vision
Our vision is simple.
A future where every young entrepreneur has the support they need to thrive.
Together, we are shaping a future where children believe in their ideas—and in themselves.
Our Leadership
Our founder, Candace, is a writer by profession with nearly 20 years of experience across creative writing, grant writing, marketing, scriptwriting, and other writing styles. A Dallas native, she now resides in Houston after earning a degree in Broadcast Journalism from Texas Southern University and a master’s degree in Psychology from Houston Baptist University.
She currently uses her storytelling expertise to engage children through imaginative literature that highlights practical life skills within the strength and richness of Black history and culture. Her mission is to educate youth while fostering wonder, self-worth, and purpose through the arts, history, and language.
Her first book, Mason Makes Money, follows Mason, a thoughtful and resourceful second-grader, as he learns foundational concepts of entrepreneurship and money management while helping a friend in need. Building on this work, Candace founded the Mason Makes Money Fund, a nonprofit that teaches entrepreneurial education and financial literacy and awards grant funding to young entrepreneurs three times a year through virtual and in-person workshops held in Houston schools and community-based organizations.
Board of Directors
Dr. Marlena Robinson
Dr. Marlena Robinson is an educator and advocate focused on empowering future leaders. She serves as an Assistant Professor at Texas Southern University and is a member of the Mason Makes Money Fund Board. She is passionate about education, mentorship, and community support. She is especially committed to helping young entrepreneurs pursue their goals.
Joyce Sisson-Fransaw
Joyce Sisson-Fransaw is a business owner and community leader with deep experience in nonprofit finance. She is the owner of JSF Bookkeeping Services, LLC and has over 15 years of accounting experience across education, government, and nonprofit organizations. She has held numerous leadership roles within Texas Southern University alumni and civic organizations. She is known for her integrity, financial expertise, and commitment to service.
Kris Anise Broussard
Kris Anise Broussard is an educator, author, and communications professional with a focus on youth empowerment. She has over a decade of experience tutoring students and leading corporate training in communication and leadership. She is a published author and a proud HBCU graduate of Clark Atlanta University. She serves on the Mason Makes Money Fund Board supporting curriculum and youth entrepreneurship.
Mark Griego
Mark Griego is a nonprofit leader with experience in strategic transformation and organizational growth. He has worked across the tech and nonprofit sectors building and strengthening mission-driven organizations. He focuses on the connection between education, opportunity, and community impact. He supports youth empowerment and STEM-based entrepreneurship through Mason Makes Money Fund.
Darenda Dorsey
Darenda Dorsey is a nonprofit professional with a background in development, philanthropy, and community engagement. She currently serves as Development Director at the Nature Discovery Center. She has held roles at several major Houston nonprofits focused on giving and volunteerism. She is passionate about nature, community well-being, and creating meaningful family experiences.
Jon Brown
Jon Brown is committed to expanding access to entrepreneurial education for young people. He believes business education is essential to preparing youth for the future. Through his work with Mason Makes Money Fund, he supports learning experiences that build confidence and real-world skills. He encourages young entrepreneurs to stay patient, focus on growth, and see entrepreneurship as a long-term journey.
Ash Jones
Ash Jones is passionate about closing the financial literacy gap through early education. He is driven by the mission of teaching youth practical money and business skills as early as possible. At Mason Makes Money Fund, he helps ensure training and grant objectives align with the organization’s values. He encourages young entrepreneurs to take action, embrace mistakes, and keep moving forward.
