A Community Access Foundation Initiative
Building the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
The Young Entrepreneurs Initiative partners with schools, educators, and communities to establish Young Entrepreneurs Clubs where students learn by creating, building, and launching real-world entrepreneurial projects.
"Entrepreneurs are not created by lectures alone — they are developed through action, experience, and the courage to build something real."
In Action
Building the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Collaboration & Ideation
Students develop real business concepts together
Pitch & Present
Students compete at local, regional, and national levels
Build & Launch
From idea to execution — students learn by doing
Core Programs
Seven Programs. One Mission.
Young Entrepreneurs Club
School-based clubs where students explore entrepreneurship through teamwork, leadership, and hands-on projects throughout the year.
Entrepreneurship Project Challenge
The signature YEI experience — students create and complete real-world entrepreneurial projects, from startups to product launches.
Young Entrepreneurs Championship
Students showcase their entrepreneurial achievements and compete at school, district, state, and future national levels.
Young Entrepreneurs Summit
An annual celebration bringing together students, educators, mentors, and business leaders to honor innovation and achievement.
Recognition & Certification
Students earn certificates, awards, and leadership recognition that strengthen future academic and career opportunities.
Young Entrepreneurs Expo
A public showcase where students present their entrepreneurial projects to the community, business leaders, and potential investors.
Young Entrepreneurs Business Network
A professional network connecting YEI alumni, mentors, and business leaders to support ongoing entrepreneurial growth beyond the program.
How to Participate
Two Ways to Join YEI
For Schools
School Young Entrepreneurs Club
CAF partners with schools and educational institutions to establish Young Entrepreneurs Clubs on campus, giving students access to the full YEI program experience.
- Entrepreneurial projects and challenges
- Entrepreneurship Project Challenge
- Young Entrepreneurs Championship
- Leadership development activities
- Young Entrepreneurs Summit
For Students
Virtual Young Entrepreneurs Club
Students whose schools don't yet offer a YEC, or who prefer a flexible online experience, can join the Virtual Young Entrepreneurs Club.
- Virtual club meetings
- Team-based entrepreneurial projects
- Guest entrepreneur sessions
- Young Entrepreneurs Championship
- Young Entrepreneurs Summit
Student Development
What Students Gain
Through YEI, students don't just learn about entrepreneurship — they practice it. Every project, challenge, and competition builds skills that last a lifetime.
The Process
How YEI Works
Create
Students form teams, identify opportunities, and develop entrepreneurial project ideas with guidance from educators and mentors.
Build & Test
Teams build prototypes, test ideas with real customers, refine their approach, and develop planning and execution skills.
Present & Compete
Students present results, compete in the Championship, and earn certificates and recognition for their achievements.
Our Belief
"Entrepreneurs are not created by lectures alone — they are developed through action, experience, and the courage to build something real."
— The Young Entrepreneurs Initiative
Founding Sponsors & Community Partners
Be Part of Something That Matters
The Young Entrepreneurs Initiative is building a network of forward-thinking organizations committed to developing the next generation of entrepreneurs. We invite businesses, foundations, and community organizations to join us as Founding Sponsors or Community Partners — and help shape this initiative from the ground up.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're a school administrator, educator, student, or organization — we'd love to hear from you.