The Young
Entrepreneurs Academy - "YEA!"

Click here to download brochure

Click here to download application

Contact Mr. Falzoi for more information

Click here to watch short video
 


 

Background on Program

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a year-long program that teaches high school students how to start and run their own REAL businesses. Developed at the University of Rochester in 2004 with the support of a grant from the Kauffman Foundation, YEA! is in its first year at Dansville High School.

Over the course of the program, students:

  • Brainstorm business ideas
  • Write a business plan
  • Pitch their business plan to potential investors
  • Obtain funding
  • Actually launch their own businesses or social movements

Why Apply?

This program offers you the chance to:

  • Develop the skills necessary to launch your own business or social movement (hands-on entrepreneurial experience!)
  • Learn about real businesses - why they succeed or fail.
  • Hear from local entrepreneurs.
  • Launch your own business!
  • Become more confident in your ideas and your abilities.

Organization of Program

YEA! will be launched as a class during the school day.  We will accept applications from students from all high school grade levels.

There are no classes during regular school holidays and recesses. Students are taught by one instructor, but are exposed to guest lecturers, successful entrepreneurs and business mentors. The class goes on field trips to various local businesses. Finally, the students participate in three major events throughout the year: the Investor Panel, Trade Show and a formal graduation ceremony.

 

Student Selection Process

To apply for YEA!, students must:

  • Fill out the YEA! application
  • Complete the essay and the short answer questions
  • Submit a letter of recommendation

Once the completed application packet is received, students will be asked to come in for an interview. Acceptance in the program is based on all aspects of an application, as well as the personal interview. Prior experience with business is not required!