The Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 12th year of the Young Entrepreneur Academy (YEA!). This program exemplifies the Chamber’s dedication to fostering the next generation of business leaders by providing middle and high school students a unique opportunity to bring their entrepreneurial ideas to life.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the fresh ideas, passion, and innovative thinking of our youngest community members are more important than ever. The Young Entrepreneur Academy is designed to harness this potential, empowering students to explore their creativity and transform their ideas into tangible business ventures. By nurturing these budding entrepreneurs, the Chamber is investing not only in the future of our local economy but also in creating a culture of innovation and resilience that benefits the entire community.
This year, the program features a newly structured calendar that offers even more support and mentorship. Applications are open until mid-November, with the program beginning in January and culminating in a national competition in May. This revised schedule provides students with a comprehensive, semester-long experience where they will develop their business acumen, work closely with mentors, and refine their business models.
Participants will start with just an idea and, over several months, navigate every stage of the entrepreneurial process. They will conduct market research, develop a unique brand, create a viable product or service, craft an investor pitch, and ultimately launch their own business. The program equips young entrepreneurs with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. At the end of the program, students pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors, with the chance to win funding to make their dreams a reality. One will go on to compete at the national level, gaining further recognition for their innovative idea.
The Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce invites all aspiring young entrepreneurs to apply and embark on a journey that will challenge them, develop their skills, and contribute to the vibrant business landscape of our community. Applications are open, and this is a chance to turn entrepreneurial dreams into action.
For more information about the program and to apply, please visit gjchamber.org/young-entrepreneurs-academy-yea. Let’s support and celebrate the bright, innovative minds that will shape the future of Grand Junction and beyond.