Join talented students from across the country in our virtual incubator designed specifically for high school, college and university youth entrepreneurs.
Launch Your Business
Transform your innovative idea into a real-world business with structured guidance, resources, and expert feedback.
Entrepreneur Community
Connect with like-minded young founders and build a network that will support your entrepreneurial journey for years to come.
The Youthpreneur Incubator is a premier, high-impact virtual entrepreneurship program by Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow, valued at $7,500 per student.
We empower high school students, college students, and recent graduates to develop real-world business acumen, leadership skills, and the confidence to turn their bold ideas into thriving ventures. Through hands-on mentorship, dynamic workshops, and access to funding opportunities, students don’t just learn about entrepreneurship — they become entrepreneurs.
Thanks to generous community support, participants pay a fraction of the true cost — and every graduate earns a $1,000 Founder Grant to fuel their business journey.
What You'll Achieve
Launch Your Startup
Transform your idea into a viable business with personalized guidance through every stage of development. You'll create a business model, develop a minimum viable product, and establish your brand identity.
Earn $1,000 Stipend
Receive funding during the incubator program to support your startup development. This stipend allows you to focus on building your business without financial constraints.
Pitch to Investors
Present your startup to a panel of real investors and industry experts at our live pitch competition. Gain valuable feedback and potentially secure additional funding to take your business to the next level.
Get Expert Mentorship
Receive guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and industry specialists who will help refine your business strategy and navigate challenges.
Program Benefits
Skill Development
Build essential business, leadership, and networking skills that will benefit you throughout your career, whether as an entrepreneur or in any professional path.
Founder Community
Connect with other ambitious young founders who share your passion for innovation and entrepreneurship, creating lasting relationships and potential partnerships.
Startup Resources
Gain access to premium software, business tools, and templates that typically cost thousands of dollars, helping you launch your startup efficiently.
Professional Network
Build connections with mentors, investors, and program alumni who can open doors to opportunities and provide ongoing support beyond the program.
Program Structure
Phase 1: Ideation & Validation
Over 4 weeks, develop your business concept and validate it through market research. You'll identify your target audience, analyze competitors, and refine your value proposition to ensure product-market fit.
Phase 2: Product Development
Spend six weeks building your minimum viable product (MVP). You'll create prototypes, gather user feedback, and iterate on your offering while developing your marketing strategy and business operations plan.
Phase 3: Pitch Training
Focus two weeks on crafting a compelling pitch. Work with communication coaches to develop your presentation skills, create impactful slides, and prepare to answer tough questions from investors.
Phase 4: Pitch Competition
The final week culminates in a live pitch event where you'll present your business to investors, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs for feedback, recognition, and a potential win.
Eligibility Criteria
High School or College Student
Currently enrolled in grades 9-12 at the time of application, attending any public, private, or homeschool program in the United States.
Entrepreneurial Passion
Demonstrate a genuine interest in entrepreneurship and innovation. Prior business experience is welcome but not required—your enthusiasm and commitment matter most.
Time Commitment
Ability to dedicate 10-15 hours per week to developing your startup throughout the program duration, including attending virtual workshops and mentoring sessions.
Creative Problem-Solver
Show a willingness to think creatively, adapt to challenges, and persevere through the inevitable obstacles of building a startup from scratch.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. No prior business knowledge is necessary—just bring your creativity, determination, and willingness to learn!
Anwar Washington, better known as Anwar Carrots, is the founder of the streetwear brand Carrots. A trailblazer in retail, collaboration, and brand building, Anwar brought his industry expertise to Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow’s T-Shirt Lab, mentoring the next generation of young entrepreneurs and creators.
James Cole, Jr.
James, CEO and Chairman of The Jasco Group and former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education, served as the first Board Chairman of Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow. A longtime supporter of our mission, James has judged multiple Pitch For Ya Life competitions and continues to mentor students, teaching them how to value, manage, and financially operate their businesses with confidence and precision.
Nina Putnam
Nina, Vice President of Inclusion, Diversity, and Talent at Kering Group, is a passionate DEI and talent advocate with leadership experience across Kering, Walmart, Jet.com, and TJX Companies. We were honored to have Nina bring her expertise, vision, and commitment to empowering the next generation to Pitch For Ya Life.
Our mentors and judges bring decades of real-world experience to the program. They're committed to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and will provide invaluable guidance throughout your startup journey.
Apply Now & FAQs
What happens after I apply?
After the application deadline, our team reviews all submissions and selects finalists for video interviews. Final decisions are announced within 3 weeks of the application closing date. All applicants receive feedback regardless of outcome.
Do I need to have a business idea already?
While having an idea is helpful, it's not required. Many successful participants develop their concepts during the ideation phase of the program. What's most important is your passion for entrepreneurship and willingness to work hard.
How is the $1,000 stipend distributed?
The stipend is paid in two installments: $500 after completing Phase 1 (Ideation & Validation) and $500 after completing Phase 3 (Pitch Training). Grants can be used for business development, education or necessary personal expenses.
Can I apply with a team?
Yes! Teams of up to five students can apply together. Each team member must meet the eligibility requirements and submit individual applications noting their team affiliation. The $1,000 grant would be shared among team members.