NACC Pappajohn Youth Entrepreneurial Academy applications now open

To the Press

The Youth Entrepreneurial Academy is a free opportunity for North Iowa high school students to learn and practice entrepreneurial skills that are crucial for success in any career.

YEA features fun activities, opportunities for teamwork, insights into business skills like financing and marketing, local field trips, and insightful guest speakers, according to information from Kelley O’Rourke, NIACC school partnership entrepreneurial coordinator.

“Every student will have the chance to discover how their personal strengths and interests can be developed and applied to create their own path to success” she said.

The academy will be held from Monday, June 3, to Friday, June 7,  from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there will be a pitch competition on Tuesday, June 11, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., all at the NIACC Pappajohn Center, 500 College Drive, Mason City.

Applications are available from high school advisors, business teachers, or the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. Applications can be completed via an online application form or by downloading the fillable application form.

Applications are due May 17 for priority deadline, or until program is full.

Each YEA student will receive a $500 scholarship to NIACC which can be used for summer, online, or full-time classes. Up to $3,000 in scholarships are available to students enrolling in the Associate in Applied Science Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management Degree program at NIACC.

Students can also compete for $500 in seed money for their business concept during the YEA pitch competition at the end of the week.

Travel reimbursement or on-campus housing is available to participating students.

This academy is free to participants through financial support from the John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation.

For more information contact Kelley O’Rourke at 641-422-4234 or kelley.orourke@niacc.edu.