Chambers of Commerce

 

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a groundbreaking and exciting afterschool program that transforms local middle and high school students into real, confident entrepreneurs. Through the year-long program, students in grades 6-12 generate business ideas, conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and launch their very own companies.

 

From exciting local business guest lecturers to dynamic field trips to local companies, students learn how to develop and run a real enterprise in a fun, projects-based approach.

 

YEA! was developed in 2004 at the University of Rochester with support from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Today, the Academy is a proud national partner of the United States Chamber of Commerce and Campaign for Free Enterprise. Thanks to the Chamber’s generous support, the Academy can be found today in communities nationwide.

 

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy is a life-changing program that positively impacts the entire community while generating a profit for local Chambers of Commerce. Bringing this powerful program to your area is easy. Create local buzz, become the center of the action in your community, and continue to celebrate the spirit of enterprise. Together, we can strengthen the next generation of America’s business leaders. For detailed information on launching YEA! in your community see below, and please feel free to call us at 585-272-3535 or email info@yeausa.org.

 

Why Chambers across the country are bringing the Young Entrepreneurs Academy to their community:

 

  • Connect local business and community leaders with students to build real small businesses in your area while promoting the spirit of enterprise.
  • Promote job creation, economic development, and growth among youth.
  • Strengthen relationships between your business and educational communities.
  • Create opportunities for Chamber members to actively participate in the program.
  • Promote the role of your Chamber in your community and generate new membership.
  • Introduce the YEA! National Scholarship Competition to students in your community.
  • Generate new revenue and positive net profits for your Chamber through the program.

 

The Seven Simple Steps to Launch YEA!:

 

  • 1.Introduce the Academy to your local school district(s)
  • 2.Introduce the Academy to your Chamber Board of Directors
  • 3. Apply for a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Free Enterprise Grant
  • 4.Complete the YEA! Program Adoption Agreement
  • 5.Receive YEA! Materials & Staff your Local Class
  • 6.Receive Comprehensive Training from YEA!
  • 7.Launch your Academy in November 2012 and electrify your community!