Youth Entrepreneurship Program


Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur:

Join The Lincoln County Youth Entrepreneurship Class

Ben Pasternak created the popular mobile game “Impossible Rush” when he was just 15 years old. He later went on to found the social media app Monkey. Mark Zuckerberg co-founded Facebook in 2004 when he was just 19 years old. High school students in Lincoln County created and ran the “Kayak Shack” in Waldport for years, and today many young people operate successful businesses here on the coast. In short, the evidence is clear: it’s never too soon to explore entrepreneurship.

Are you a high school student with a passion for innovation and a dream of building your own business empire? Look no further! Starting on January 31, 2024, and running through April 24, we’re thrilled to offer a Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) inside Lincoln County High Schools, every Wednesday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. This course, presented by the Oregon Coast Community College Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and supported by Northwest Oregon Works, promises to be an exciting journey into the world of entrepreneurship, and here’s why you should enroll:

  • Discover Your Entrepreneurial Spirit

Are you curious about what it takes to be an entrepreneur? This class is your opportunity to explore the exciting and dynamic world of new venture creation. You’ll learn about idea generation, business planning, marketing strategies, and more. We’ll help you unlock your creative potential and develop the skills needed to turn your dreams into reality.

  • Real-World Experience

The Youth Entrepreneurship Program is designed to provide hands-on, practical experience. You’ll create real business ideas, develop business plans, and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities that entrepreneurs face every day.

  • Find Your Passion

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money; it’s about pursuing your passions and making a difference in the world. This class will help you identify your interests and talents and guide you towards turning them into a viable business venture.

  • Pitch Competition Extravaganza

The highlight of this course is the pitch competition scheduled for the end of the program. You’ll have the chance to present your business plan in a festive public setting. Not only will this experience boost your confidence, but it will also give you a taste of what it’s like to pitch your ideas to potential investors or customers.

  • Learn from experts

The program is delivered by the Oregon Coast Community College Small Business Development Center, a team of professionals with business founding and ownership experience, right here in Lincoln County and beyond.

  • Cash Prizes and Scholarships

We believe in recognizing and rewarding talent and hard work. The top three business plan presentations will win cash prizes and scholarships. This is not just an opportunity to gain knowledge but a chance to earn tangible rewards for your efforts – and, perhaps, even launch that new business!

  • Explore Your Future

Are you considering a career in business but aren’t sure if it’s the right path for you? This class is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of business and entrepreneurship. It can help you make informed decisions about your educational and career goals.

Whether you dream of launching the next big tech startup, opening a small local business, or simply want to learn valuable life skills, our Youth Entrepreneurship Program is your gateway to success. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and transform your ideas into reality. Held on early-release Wednesdays in Lincoln County high schools, the course is timed to fit neatly between your normal course load and afternoon sports and activities.

Enrollment is open now, and spaces are limited. Take the first step towards your entrepreneurial journey and join us on January 31, 2024, for an exciting adventure that could shape your future in ways you never imagined. Your entrepreneurial dreams start here!