Empowering Students to Lead, Innovate and Thrive

What is the Young Innovators program?

Young Innovators is a free, hands-on program that empowers middle and high school students from participating West Virginia schools to develop real-world skills like leadership, creativity, problem-solving and teamwork. WVU Extension launched this program in 16 middle and high schools in West Virginia for the 2025-2026 academic year. 

The WVU Extension Young Innovators program is a free, hands-on initiative designed to empower middle and high school students with real-world skills in leadership, creativity and entrepreneurial problem-solving. Through interactive sessions emphasizing teamwork and collaboration, students transform their ideas into tangible projects that address real community challenges. The program culminates at the Mountain State Innovators Summit, where student teams will showcase their ideas, connect with mentors and industry leaders and compete for funding to bring their visions to life.

Why Young Innovators? 

It’s about preparing students to thrive and innovate in the Mountain State.  

• Boost Confidence and Communication Skills 

• Build Creative Thinking and Leadership Abilities 

• Solve Real Problems That Matter to You 

• Meet Mentors and Collaborate with New Friends 

• Showcase Your Ideas at the Statewide Summit 

Rooted in West Virginia. Built for the Future. 

Young Innovators is proud to serve communities across West Virginia, particularly in rural areas where opportunities for exploring entrepreneurship and innovation are often limited. By meeting students where they are and helping them grow into confident problem-solvers, we’re not just building leaders, we’re fostering a stronger, more vibrant Mountain State. 

Find Your Path

Parents

Support your child’s growth and confidence through hands-on learning.

Learn How It Helps

Students

Ready to solve problems, create solutions and make a difference? 

Explore the Program

Teachers

Guide the next generation of innovators in your school or community.

Get Involved

Mountain State Innovators Summit 

See how students can showcase their ideas and connect with local leaders.

Learn More

Interested in Investing in our Young Innovators?

WVU is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer -- Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs).
The WVU Board of Governors is the governing body of WVU. The Higher Education Policy Commission in West Virginia is responsible for developing, establishing, and overseeing the implementation of a public policy agenda for the state’s four-year colleges and universities.
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