Southeastern hosts Young Entrepreneurs Academy
Thursday, September 3, 2020
by: Tonya Lowentritt
HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University and the Louisiana Small Business
Development Center at Southeastern have partnered to host the Young Entrepreneurs
Academy—an innovative after school program where students develop, build, and launch
their own business or social enterprise. Local students in grades 6-12 can now apply
to take part in the 2020-2021 class.
“The nationally proven program offers mentorships and guidance from local business
leaders, a dynamic and fun learning environment, and the opportunity for teens to
earn real investments to start their business,” said Southeast Louisiana Business
Center Training Coordinator Karen Romero. “Classes take place at Southeastern’s College
of Business in one of the state-of-the-art technology labs from October to April.”
Graduates often cite the valuable connections, newfound business knowledge, and
increased overall confidence after completing the program, Romero explained.
“The Young Entrepreneurs Academy has taught me so many life skills along with
business skills that I can implement for the rest of my life,” said Isabel Yarborough,
an 18-year-old Covington resident and owner of Flora + Wild.” “I have found a career
path now-- what I want to do for the rest of my life.”
Each class is limited to only 25 students to ensure individual attention and
safe social distancing. The application deadline is Sept. 25 or when the class is
full, whichever comes first. Each accepted applicant receives a 50% reduction in tuition
from generous sponsorships from more than a dozen local businesses, with additional
scholarships available based on need.
Students can apply through the program’s website at www.yeanorthshore.org.
