Empowering Girls to Step into BUSINESS and LIFE
Embrace your passion. Live your dream. Change the World.
APPLICATIONS FOR OUR 2019-2020 CLASS NOW being accepted!
About Us
Our Program
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a groundbreaking and exciting program that transforms local middle and high school students into real, confident entrepreneurs. Through the six-month long program, students in grades 6-12 generate business ideas, conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and launch their very own companies. It's a truly transformative experience for every student who steps into this incredible opportunity.
Why YEA! Chicago?
Seeing the need for a program that supports and promotes the capabilities of girls and young women, YEA! Chicago co-founder Emily Smith saw an opportunity to bring the Young Entrepreneurs Academy program to Chicago in 2014. Now in its 5th year, YEA! Chicago is the only all-girls chapter in the nation and has grown in size, network, and is on a path to expand it's reach in Chicago. "We couldn't be more excited about the future of women in business" says Emily, "and by focusing not only on the skills of building a business but on building character and a sense of self that helps a young woman engage her mind and heart...to trust herself, and at that young age, it's a game changer."
Our Team
Our amazing team of volunteers and community support is committed to helping these young entrepreneurs grow, learn, and realize their dreams! From our YEA! Chicago team, The Spirit Foundation Board of Directors, our community partners at 1871, Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses, NAWBO Chicago, and our class/program volunteers, we take our convictions and turn them into action. This is one powerful team! If you'd like to be part of our nonprofit organization and support our Girls, contact us at info@yeachicago.org to find out more!
Help Our Cause
Join us in our mission to help girls and young women realize their capabilities in business and gain confidence to step into anything. Whether sponsoring a student's tuition, meals, or contributing to our awards fund, every dollar is deeply important to our mission. Thank you for being part of our mission to build the future for women...today! Your contribution to The Spirit Foundation, the 501(c)(3) parent company of YEA! Chicago, will directly contribute to the growth, wellbeing, and development of our students. Thank you!
