On Tuesday evening, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the graduation of 15 bold young innovators—our largest cohort to date—from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), marking the program’s 12th year of cultivating youth-driven business leadership in Mesa County.
Over the course of 20 weeks, these middle and high school students did far more than attend class—they developed and launched fully operational businesses. With guidance from local business mentors, instructors, and investors, they transformed ideas into viable enterprises, gained real-world experience, and discovered the power of perseverance.
As part of the ceremony, Chamber President and CEO Candace Carnahan welcomed the crowd and emphasized that YEA! is not just about launching companies—it’s about unleashing potential.
“It’s easy to lose faith in future generations when we only hear the headlines. But here in front of me are 15 examples of what is possible when you give young people the tools, the encouragement, and a platform,” Carnahan said. “These students have done hard things—and that is something many adults never attempt in their lifetime.”
Guest speaker Shelley Clennin, founder of SafeSpace Builders, shared her entrepreneurial journey and reminded graduates that resilience, vision, and a willingness to fail forward are what create real impact. Her story underscored the message that entrepreneurship isn’t reserved for adults in boardrooms—it starts wherever bold ideas live.
The Class of 2025 tackled a wide range of industries—from educational kits and local services to sustainable goods and product innovation. Whether launching a seasonal wreath business or a second-hand fashion brand, these students built ventures that reflect the values and interests of their generation. Some have already made sales, secured contracts, and begun scaling—proving the power of what’s possible when we invest in youth.
Meet the YEA! Class of 2025:
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Lily Alire – Pressed&Polished: Custom press-on nail subscriptions
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Jaden Danford – Life Blood Roasters: Locally roasted, small-batch coffee
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Conner Day – WeMow: Platform for finding local lawn care services
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Aidan Innis – Perfectos Forensics: Forensic science kits for education and recreation
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Sylliss Jennings – Syclone Rentals: Sports equipment rentals tailored for homeschoolers and families
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Cameron McGregor – Rocky Mountain Ropes: Handmade western-style rope wreaths
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Mallory McGregor – Sundial Equine Rehabilitation: Equine athletic recovery services
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Brielle Nye – Carry It On: Upcycled tote bags from thrifted clothing
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Taylor Urlacher – DDD: 3D-printed toys and fidgets for creative play
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Sawyer Quinn – Duoview: Budget-friendly dual-screen laptop attachments
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Genevieve Seymour – Shine Again: Curated second-hand gifts and clothing drives
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Kayla Shepardson – The Shepherd’s Bouquet: Homegrown floral arrangements
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Xander Smith – Red Brick Seasoning: All-natural family spice blends
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Kade Steimel – Honu70 Property Services: Residential and commercial cleaning solutions
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Axton Whittington – Octane Cycles: Rugged commuter bikes for the Grand Valley
These aren’t just business ventures—they are stories of persistence, creativity, and courage.
Our Gratitude
The Chamber extends sincere thanks to the many mentors, investors, instructors, and volunteers who poured into these students throughout the semester. Special appreciation goes to our Presenting Sponsor, the City of Grand Junction, and our Premier Sponsors, Home Loan Insurance and Rocky Mountain West Insurance, for making this year’s YEA! program possible.
What’s Next?
Applications for the YEA! Class of 2026 are now open. If you know a middle or high school student with big ideas and a passion for learning, this program provides the structure, support, and spark to launch them into the world of entrepreneurship. Applications will be accepted through November 1st.
To apply, or to support the program as a mentor, guest speaker, or sponsor, visit www.gjchamber.org/yea or contact Alessandra Muse at alessandra@gjchamber.org.
These students have already shown us what’s possible. Let’s continue to invest in the future they are shaping—one bold business at a time.
