# Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition

National pitch competition for YEA! entrepreneurs. Students compete with businesses launched through YEA! program.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | YEA! |
| Category | business |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2026-08-16 |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Rochester, NY |
| Apply | https://yeausa.org/ |

## About this program

The **Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition** is a capstone event for teens who have launched real businesses through the YEA! business program. Run by **YEA!**, this national pitch competition brings together standout high school entrepreneurs from across the country to present their ventures to a panel of investors and business leaders. Participants showcase their ideas, company progress, and financial plans, gaining recognition as serious young innovators in **entrepreneurship**, **finance**, and **marketing**.

Through the YEA! National Competition, students build practical skills that go far beyond a typical high school business class. Competitors refine their **business plans**, learn how to analyze costs and revenue, and practice explaining their **finance** strategy in clear, compelling terms. They strengthen **marketing** skills by crafting persuasive pitches, defining target customers, and communicating their brand story. Along the way, students receive feedback from mentors, local entrepreneurs, and judges, building confidence, communication skills, and real-world **leadership** experience.

This program directly supports strong **college applications** and career readiness. Students can point to a real, revenue-generating company, investor-style pitch experience, and national-level recognition in **entrepreneurship**—all standout achievements for applications and resumes. Participation helps teens:

- Demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, and **leadership**
- Gain experience in budgeting, **finance**, and strategic **marketing**
- Build a professional network of business owners, mentors, and peers

The **YEA! National Competition** is ideal for motivated **high school** students (typically grades 9–12) who are serious about launching and growing a business, not just completing a class project. Teens who enjoy solving problems, working with customers, and pitching ideas will find this program especially rewarding. For students and parents seeking a structured, real-world **business program** that combines **entrepreneurship** training with national recognition, the YEA! National Competition stands out as a powerful next step.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition cost?

Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### What is the application deadline for Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition?

The application deadline is August 16, 2026. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition?

Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition online or in person?

Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition is an in-person program based in Rochester, NY.

### How do I apply to Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) National Competition?

Apply directly through YEA!'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-05.
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