Wake Forest Summer Immersion: Entrepreneurship Institute

The Entrepreneurship Institute at Wake Forest University is a one-week immersive program designed for high school students in grades 9–12 who are eager to explore the world of business and innovation. Held on the Reynolda Campus in Winston-Salem, NC, this program provides hands-on learning experiences, mentorship from successful entrepreneurs, and the opportunity to develop and pitch your own start-up idea. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or simply curious about how businesses are built, this institute offers an engaging introduction to the entrepreneurial mindset. Program Highlights This institute combines academic learning with practical experience to inspire future innovators: Topics Covered Entrepreneurial Ideation: Learn how to brainstorm and refine business ideas. Financial Modeling for Entrepreneurs: Understand the financial aspects of starting and running a business. Entrepreneurial Marketing: Develop strategies to target, reach, and sell to customers. Developing an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Cultivate resilience, adaptability, and creativity. Vapor Testing, Prototyping, and Concept Development: Test ideas and create basic prototypes. Hands-On Experiences Be mentored by successful entrepreneurs, founders, and industry leaders. Tour business accelerators and incubators to see start-ups in action. Create a professional pitch deck for your business idea. Participate in a start-up competition where you pitch your idea to a panel of judges. Engage in a "Pivot Panel" discussion to learn how to handle failure and adapt strategies. Daily Schedule A typical day includes: Morning: Workshops on ideation, marketing, or financial modeling. Afternoon: Field trips to start-ups or hands-on prototyping sessions. Evening: Group discussions, networking events, or team project work. Program Details. Location: Wake Forest University Reynolda Campus, Winston-Salem, NC Eligibility: Open to high school students entering grades 9–12 (ages 14–18). Tuition: $3,000 (includes lodging, meals, course materials, and activities). Participants will receive an official Wake Forest University Certificate of Completion upon finishing the program. Why Choose This Program? Parents and students praise the Entrepreneurship Institute for its engaging curriculum and real-world applications. Key benefits include: Expert Mentorship: Learn directly from experienced entrepreneurs who provide valuable insights and guidance. Practical Skills Development: Gain hands-on experience in creating business plans, financial models, and marketing strategies. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded peers and industry professionals while building teamwork skills. For teens passionate about innovation and eager to explore how businesses are created and scaled, this program offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow, and take the first steps toward entrepreneurial success. It’s more than just a camp—it’s a launchpad for future business leaders!