The University of Rochester and Downtown Rochester Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) classes kicked off with 44 motivated middle and high school students, with a drive to launch and run their own, real businesses.
A competitive application process required students to complete an essay, write responses to short answer questions, submit their school transcripts and a letter of reference, and participate in an in-person admissions interview prior to acceptance into the program.
Throughout the year, students will work in close cooperation with local business leaders, community leaders and entrepreneurs who use their personal experiences to demonstrate how to develop business ideas and objectives, write a business plan, pitch to investors, obtain funding, register with governmental agencies, establish a web presence and more.
By the end of the 30-week class, students launch, own and operate fully-formed and functioning businesses, which may be carried after their graduation from the program.
YEA! University of Rochester Class of 2016 area members include: Michelle Nesbitt, Brockport High School; Jon Sanfratello, Churchville Chili High School; Nathan Swanson, Churchville Chili High School.
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy is a national program offered for students in grades 6 to 12 by chambers of commerce, professional organizations, colleges and universities and public and private middle and high schools. For more information visit yeausa.org/rochester.
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