Last Wednesday evening, 15 innovative young minds took the stage at the DoubleTree by Hilton to pitch their newly formed businesses at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Investor Panel event. This transformative program—the only YEA! chapter in the state of Colorado—guides middle and high school students through the real-world process of launching and operating their own businesses.
Over the course of the school year, students in the program develop business plans, meet with local mentors, and engage with guest speakers to bring their ideas to life. The Investor Panel marks a pivotal milestone in the program, where students present their ventures to a panel of local business leaders in hopes of securing startup funding and a shot at national recognition.
This year’s class, representing students from across Mesa County, ranged in age from middle school to high school and collectively pitched 15 impressive business ventures. Nearly $10,000 in startup capital was awarded by the investor panel to support these emerging entrepreneurs.
Business ideas included:
Syclone Rentals, a sports gear rental service tailored to families and homeschoolers.
Octane Cycles, high-quality commuter bicycles focused on durability and utility.
Perfectos Forensics, hands-on science kits designed for educational use.
Life Blood Roasters, small-batch, single-origin specialty coffee.
Sundial Equine Rehabilitation, post-injury care services for equine athletes.
And Carry It On, a sustainable fashion business turning thrifted clothes into unique tote bags, with a portion of proceeds going to charity.
Selected as this year’s standout entrepreneur was Brielle Nye, CEO of Carry It On. Brielle will go on to represent Colorado at the National Saunders Scholars Competition on May 3rd, competing with top student entrepreneurs from across the country for scholarship awards and national recognition.
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy is a signature initiative of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, reflecting its commitment to cultivating future business leaders and fostering innovation in the local economy. Since launching the program in 2012, the Chamber has helped over 100 students turn bold ideas into real, revenue-generating businesses.
Special thanks go to the program’s instructors, mentors, sponsors, and community partners—including the City of Grand Junction, Home Loan Insurance, Rocky Mountain West Insurance, and many others—whose support makes this program possible.
The community is encouraged to meet this year’s student entrepreneurs at the upcoming YEA! Trade Show on Saturday, May 31st at Mesa Mall, and celebrate their achievements at Graduation on Tuesday, June 10th at the Courtyard by Marriott.
