JPMorgan Chase has announced a $6 million philanthropic investment over the next five years to support local nonprofit organizations in Argentina, aiming to expand career opportunities for underserved young people. The initial $450,000 will be granted to EMpower, a nonprofit supporting marginalized communities, to help 2,000 youth access skills training, work-based learning, and employment support. The program also seeks to strengthen public-private partnerships to create long-term improvements in youth employment across the country.
This initiative builds on JPMorgan Chase’s 125-year presence in Argentina, with Buenos Aires serving as the firm’s largest Latin American location. The company has historically supported Argentina’s economic development, financing railroads, banks, and public enterprises, and has maintained close collaboration with industry leaders, financial institutions, and government partners. Facundo Gómez Minujín, Senior Country Officer, emphasized that investing in youth is essential for building a strong and inclusive future, highlighting collaboration with municipalities, employers, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate workforce entry.
The funding to EMpower will pilot a two-year program in two municipalities in Greater Buenos Aires, directly supporting 600 young people with training, work-based learning, and career planning. Many participants face barriers to entering the workforce, including high youth unemployment—over 19%—and informal work, which affects more than 68% of young people in Argentina. Local employers, including Mercado Libre, will provide insights into skills demand and career opportunities to ensure alignment with labor market needs.
Beyond the pilot, JPMorgan Chase will support an additional 1,400 young people through skills training and work-based learning, informed by local industry requirements. Lessons from the pilot will guide potential nationwide expansion, leveraging partnerships with nonprofits and cross-sector organizations to unlock career opportunities for underserved youth.
In addition, JPMorgan Chase will launch a 12-month career readiness program for underserved university students, including three months of work experience at its Buenos Aires office. Participants will gain technical and soft skills, professional networks, and improved English proficiency, enhancing access to professional careers. Clara Mendiberri, Chief Administrative Officer for Latin America and Canada, highlighted that the program underscores the firm’s commitment to expanding career opportunities and empowering local talent.
JPMorgan Chase’s commitment in Argentina builds on over a decade of supporting career readiness and mentoring programs for underserved youth. The firm has helped more than 4,750 young people access jobs or apprenticeships through partnerships with organizations such as Fundación Cimientos and Fundación Pescar. These programs have reduced school dropout rates, improved educational continuation, and increased workforce participation, with 92% of Pescar participants completing secondary school, 70% continuing education, and 84% joining the workforce.
The philanthropic investments are complemented by employee volunteer initiatives, including Career Connect launched in 2023, which links young people with JPMorgan Chase mentors to build skills, expand networks, and enhance career opportunities. To date, more than 180 youth have participated, supported by over 200 employee volunteers, demonstrating the firm’s integrated approach to addressing youth unemployment and fostering professional development in Argentina.
