Start Small and dream big!
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The Young Innovators Program is your chance to practice turning your ideas into something real and fun in a hands-on setting. Whether you are thinking about becoming an entrepreneur, starting a side hustle, designing a product or taking on a community challenge, you don’t have to wait for the future. You can start now.
With support from teachers and other students like you, this program gives you the tools to explore your interests and build your ideas. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your work at the Mountain State Innovators Summit, where you can compete for funding to turn your ideas into action.
Why Join the Young Innovators Program?
Explore Your Interests: Dive into problems that matter to you and create solutions! You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just be curious and open to new experiences.
Build Something Real: Practice turning your ideas into a business, product or solution that helps your community.
Build Your Skills: Practice developing ideas, working with a team, and communicating with others in a supportive and fun environment.
Connect with Mentors: Get support from teachers and professionals who’ve been where you are and want to help you grow.
Meet Friends from Across the State: As a Young Innovator, you will have an opportunity to attend the Mountain State Innovators Summit with students from counties across the state! Share your ideas and learn from others during this three-day youth conference at Stonewall Resort (all expenses paid).
Who Can Join?
Middle and high school students in participating schools who are curious, creative and ready to learn. No business experience is required.
Not in a participating school yet? No worries! Reach out to us to learn how you can bring the program to your school.
FAQs
Middle and high school students in participating schools across West Virginia are eligible to join. No prior business experience is required!
If your school isn’t part of the program yet, reach out to us! We’ll work with you to explore how we can bring Young Innovators to your school.
Talk to a teacher at your school for more details.
Nope! Whether you're new to entrepreneurship or have some experience, we welcome all students who are curious, creative, and ready to learn.
Bring your ideas, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn! You'll have the chance to collaborate with others and dive into exciting, hands-on projects. All Young Innovators' materials and supplies are included, as are Mountain State Innovators' expenses, including transportation, lodging, and meals.
You’ll work in groups! Collaboration is key to building your ideas and learning from others.
Your ideas are yours to keep! At the summit, you’ll pitch your project for a chance to win mini-grant funding of up to $2,500 (middle school), or prizes including iPads, camp scholarships, and more (middle and high school)!
Yes! All Young Innovators programs, including school-based programs and the statewide Mountain State Innovators Summit, are completely free for students enrolled in the program.
In addition to Young Innovators, there are other local, state, and national programs you can explore. We’ll keep you updated on other exciting opportunities as they come up!