The NIACC Youth Entrepreneurial Academy (YEA) is a fun opportunity for North Iowa high school students to learn about starting a business and becoming a boss. Students will transform ideas and passions into a viable business plan.
In 2026, YEA will be a hybrid-model, two-week experience incorporating two in-person sessions, online classroom, and virtual meetings, designed to work around the lives of today’s busy teens. Students will attend in-person one day per week at the location of their choice.
YEA culminates with a Pitch Night Competition on Tuesday June 30, 2026 where every student has the opportunity to win seed money for their business idea.
YEA is free to participants thanks to the generous financial support from the John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation. Every participant will receive a $500 NIACC scholarship
When
Monday June 15 – Friday June 26 | 9:30am-3:30pm
+ Tuesday June 30 – Pitch Competition | 5:30pm-8:30pm.
Where
Mondays June 15 & 22 – Charles City
Tuesdays June 16 & 23 – Sheffield
Wednesdays June 17 & 24 – Northwood
Thursdays June 18 & 25 – Clear Lake
Fridays June 19 & 26 – Open office hours and meeting times available
Who
Current North Iowa high school students
Apply
Applications are available from your high school advisor, business teachers, or the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. You may complete the Youth Entrepreneurial Academy application through the Online Application Form. If you require a paper application, please contact Raegan.Hanson@NIACC.edu.
Applications are due June 8, 2026 for priority consideration, or until the program is full.
After you apply, the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center will notify you regarding your participation in the Youth Entrepreneurial Academy, typically in May.
For application questions or to learn more, contact the Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111 or email Raegan.Hanson@NIACC.edu.
