Learn to braid and make money: no experience required, no financial pressure, paid training!
Want to learn braiding but don't want to spend thousands of dollars? In the United States, braiding courses charge $200-300 per class, and training costs are between $3,000-5,000. Now, some non-profit projects are providing paid training for beginners, no experience required. Earn money while learning, and provide certification support. Hourly salary can reach $22-35, or even more!
Why Choose Nonprofit Hair Braiding Programs?
1. Earn while learning - no financial burden Participants can get paid during their studies, avoiding the high tuition fees of private courses (usually $3,000 to $5,000), which is economically affordable and very suitable for students who need financial support.
2. Competitive salary In the United States, the average hourly wage for knitters ranges from $22 to $35, while certified master salon knitters can make $6,600 to $13,600 a month or more.
3. Certification support - Obtaining a license Many courses provide preparation support for state cosmetologist or natural hair stylist licenses to help learners obtain professional work qualifications.
4. Beginner-friendly - no experience required Designed for zero-based students, no relevant background is required, suitable for people of all ages who are transitioning or just entering the workplace.
5. Community and localization These courses are usually closely connected with the local community, conveniently located, and tailored to local needs.
6. Practical training and guidance The program usually provides practical learning and is guided by experienced mentors to ensure high-quality skill development.
7. Job placement and business support Many non-profit organizations help graduates find jobs, build personal profiles, and even start their own weaving businesses.
Perfect for All Ages
Teens (16–19): Get a head start with early exposure to hairstyling and small business skills.
Adults (20–40s): Transition careers or supplement income with evening/weekend classes.
Older Adults (50+): Learn a flexible, hands-on trade to support retirement, self-employment, or community engagement.
What Will You Learn?
You'll gain practical, in-demand beauty skills, including:
Foundational Techniques: Master basic styles like cornrows, flat twists, and three-strand braids.
Advanced Styling: Learn professional techniques for box braids, feed-in braids, and loc styles.
Hair & Scalp Care: Understand how to work with diverse hair textures and maintain healthy hair.
Client Communication: Build confidence managing appointments, pricing, and client relationships.
Small Business Skills: Learn to market your services, set up a booking system, and grow a client base.
Learn and earn braiding programs near you
1. Braidz N' Thangz Internship Program
📍 San Francisco Bay Area, California (222 Leland Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94134)
The program offers a 3-week paid internship, twice a week, 90 minutes each time. The training covers braiding, natural hair care and cosmetology basics and is designed to help participants obtain professional certification and a California cosmetology license.
2. Houston Braids Training Center
📍 Houston, Texas (3724 Cypress Creek Parkway, Suite 240, Houston, TX 77068)
A variety of braiding courses are available, including weekend classes and one-on-one training, covering Box Braids, Knotless Braids, Feed-In Braids and Cornrows. Some courses last for 4 days.
3. Curlture Salon
📍 Santa Rosa, California (1144 Sonoma Ave. #116, Santa Rosa, CA 95405)
An 18-month paid apprenticeship program that focuses on cutting, styling and care of natural curly hair and braiding. Provides hands-on training.
How to Apply
Find a Program: Search for nonprofits or community colleges near you offering beauty training.
Check Requirements: Some programs require basic ID or income documentation.
Apply Online or In-Person: Many have rolling admissions — the sooner you apply, the faster you can start.
Begin Training: Most programs provide orientation, supplies, and step-by-step guidance to help you succeed.
Real People, Real Results
👩🦱 Case 1: Carmen, 36, Latina Immigrant
"When I first moved to the United States, I had limited English proficiency and no college degree. It was difficult to find a job. Later, I discovered Houston Braids Training Center through a local community center. The course provided tools, practical training, and even helped me learn how to price and promote my services. In just two weeks, I had a solid foundation. I booked my first client. Now I book appointments through Instagram and earn between $6,000 and $8,000 per month."
👵 Case 2: Maeve, 61, Early Retiree “I worked as an office clerk for most of my life and retired a few years ago. But I felt bored and disconnected. A friend mentioned a local nonprofit braiding course, and I thought, why not try it? I didn’t expect to love it so much! Even though my hands were slower, the instructors were incredibly patient. There were no experience or education requirements, and I learned at my own pace. Now I offer braiding services to neighborhood kids and at church events on weekends—making around $4,500 a month.”
Your Hands Hold the Power—Apply Today!
Don’t let high tuition or lack of experience hold you back. Take a paid knitting class offered by a nonprofit and build your career – without the financial burden. Start knitting now and get on your way to success!
🔗 Braidz N' Thangz Internship Program
🔗 Houston Braids Training Center
🔗 Curlture Salon
🔗 Source 🔗 Source