Changing the world, one child's business at a time.
Do you have a child who wants to earn money but isn’t old enough for a traditional job quite yet?
Do you worry that your child isn’t learning the skills they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing society?
Or maybe you have a child with big dreams to change the world, but you’re not quite sure where to start?
How do we prepare our kids for a future that demands confidence, innovation, and leadership? Today’s systems often fall short in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and real-world capabilities. You know your child deserves more—a transformative path that empowers them to stand out and thrive.
Imagine a place where your child transforms their potential into powerful life tools that will open doors to limitless opportunities…
At Young Startup Academy, we make this vision a reality with programs designed to empower kids and teens to lead, create, and succeed. Through our programs, your child will gain the skills, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset to turn their ideas into reality, thrive as a leader, and achieve success in any path they choose.
Why Am I Here?
Three years ago, my kids were eager to make money by starting their own businesses. As a busy mom with three teens full of big ideas, I didn’t have the time or energy to fully support them. I also felt like I couldn’t give them the tools they needed; they had the ideas and the drive, but they didn’t know how to turn those ideas into success.
At first, I thought letting them figure it out on their own would be a good learning experience, but they became frustrated and discouraged. I tried telling them what to do, but that didn’t help. It lowered their motivation and strained my relationship with them. Seeing how frustrated they were made me worry about their future and feel like I was failing them.
So, I turned to my background as an educator. I searched online for resources, talked to other parents–including my own–and did my best to support my kids. But none of this gave me the answers I needed.
As I started working with my children and other young people, it dawned on me how powerful and impactful running their own businesses could be for these kids, and the priceless lessons and invaluable skills they would gain—skills that would carry them down any path they choose. I realized that this generation inherently knows what they want to do, they simply need a stronger framework to channel their brilliance.
This led me to develop a program to teach young people business and leadership skills. We teach them understand what to do, how to do it, and why it matters. They already possess everything they need to live purposeful, fulfilling, and uplifting lives, they simply need guidance to unlock the potential within them that’s waiting to be unleashed.
I believe our kids are destined to change the world. I’m here to help them do it.
Discover the Benefits of Teen Entrepreneurship
Hint...it's more than just money! Did you know that learning business skills can empower your child and benefit every aspect of their life? Discover their strengths with our free resource on teen entrepreneurship.
Join A Young Startup Academy Program
Come experience what it’s like to collaborate with other young CEOs, expand entrepreneurial skills, and build leadership confidence in a dynamic, hands-on environment.
Our entrepreneurship and leadership programs are designed to inspire and empower kids aged 12-17.
School & Homeschool Programs
Interested in bringing the Young Startup Academy to your child’s school or homeschool co-op?
Reach out to learn more about customizing a program for your community!
Young Startup In Action
Inspiring a Teen with Big Ideas Find the Right Path
Bella, mom of 15-year-old Ethan, was constantly amazed by the sheer number of ideas her son had. From creating eco-friendly products to launching a tech startup, Ethan was full of ambition but struggled with how to bring any of his ideas to life. Bella knew he had potential but didn’t know where to start or how to focus his energy in a way that would help him succeed. After discovering Young Startup Academy with our structured guidance, mentorship, and practical tools, she enrolled Ethan. The program helped him narrow down his ideas, develop a viable business plan, and break down the process into manageable steps. With personalized coaching, Ethan was able to launch a small online business selling handmade sustainable products. The resources provided helped him with everything from market research to branding, and he quickly gained confidence in his ability to turn ideas into reality.
Equipping a Creative Teen to Launch a Business
Jennifer’s 17-year-old daughter, Lily, was an incredibly creative and ambitious teen with a passion for making beautiful candles. She had done extensive research on candle-making, sourcing the best supplies, and creating unique scents and colors. However, when it came to selling and delivering her products, Lily became overwhelmed. While she loved the crafting process, she didn’t know how to effectively market her candles or set up a website to reach potential customers. Jennifer recognized her daughter’s potential but knew she needed guidance. That’s when she discovered Young Startup Academy. Through the program, Lily received hands-on support to help her not only market her candles but also set up an e-commerce website, streamline her sales process, and learn essential skills like branding and customer engagement. With Young Startup’s mentorship and resources, Lily quickly grew her candle business and gained the confidence to manage both the creative and business aspects of her venture.
One Mom’s Solution for Cultivating Creativity and Independence in Her Kids
Natalie, a mom of three, was on the lookout for a way to engage her kids in a meaningful activity that didn’t involve screens or the usual team sports. With her children growing older, she wanted them to develop skills that would set them apart and help them build confidence. After researching various options, Natalie found our teen entrepreneurship program that focuses on helping kids launch their own businesses. The program’s interactive workshops and resources encouraged her kids to think outside the box, develop new ideas, and work on projects they were passionate about. One of her children created a small jewelry business, while another started an online guitar lesson service. The program provided them with practical tools for managing finances, marketing, and time management—all while allowing them to stay engaged in a creative and constructive way. Natalie was amazed at how her kids not only developed valuable entrepreneurial skills but also gained a newfound sense of independence and responsibility.
Testimonials
Our Partners
Wondering if Young Startup Academy is the right fit for your family?
Start by asking yourself these questions:
Who will get the most out of this program?
Our program is designed for kids and teens ages 11–15 who are interested in earning money, starting a business, or simply learning valuable real-world skills.
Does my child need to have a business idea already?
Nope! We’ll help them brainstorm ideas they’re excited about — even if they don’t know where to start.
How much time is required each week?
Usually around 1–2 hours. We’ll meet once a week for a guided session, and then kids will spend a little time afterward finishing up the activities we started together.
What if my child is shy or nervous?
That’s okay! Our program is supportive, positive, and built to build confidence step-by-step. We encourage participation without pressure.
Is this program safe and appropriate for my child?
Yes! We focus on safe, age-appropriate business practices and teach personal responsibility, ethics, and good communication.
What will my child get out of Young Startup Academy?
By the end of the program, your child will have a business ready to launch, a certificate of completion, new friends, lifelong skills — and a huge boost in confidence!
What if we miss a session?
No problem. Each session is recorded so no one falls behind.
• Are you a parent searching for the tools to help your child thrive in today’s ever-changing world?
• Do you have a curious and innovative teen eager to explore new ideas?
• Would you like more screen-free activities to engage your child?
• Do you want your child to gain skills that will benefit them for a lifetime?
• Do you want to empower your child to build confidence, leadership, and critical thinking skills that prepare them for success in any path they choose?
• Does your child have big ideas you’d like to nurture with practical, real-world skills to turn those ideas into action?
• Are you looking to equip your child with essential life skills like time management, teamwork, and financial literacy that extend beyond the classroom?
• Do you want to foster your child’s independence and encourage them to take ownership of their goals in a supportive, engaging environment?
• Do you see the value in teaching entrepreneurship as a way of securing your child's stability, sustainability and options for their future?
• Are you seeking structure in an otherwise unstructured environment?
• Is your child looking to connect with uplifting, motivated friends?
• Do you live in the Utah Valley area and would love more high-quality events for your teens?
Base Camp
FOUNDATIONS FOR SUCCESS
Ideal For: Families wanting a quick introduction to entrepreneurship and leadership skills.
○ 3-week program
○ Foundational topics: idea generation, teamwork, and time management
○ Basic project with guided support
○ Progress summary report for parents
Summit
INNOVATORS IN ACTION
Ascend
BUILD AND LEAD
Trailblazer
THE FUTURE LEADER PROGRAM
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sign Up for Young Startup Academy
Step 1: Explore Our Programs
• Visit our website and navigate to the “Programs” page using the main menu.
• Select the program that best suits your child’s needs and interests.
Step 2: Check Availability
• On the program page, find the section with upcoming dates and locations for in-person cohorts or virtual sessions.
• Confirm which schedule works best for your family.
Step 3: Complete the Enrollment Form
• Click the “Register Now” button next to the program you’ve chosen.
• Fill out the online enrollment form with your contact information, your child’s details, and any special notes or preferences.
• Double-check that all fields are complete before submitting.
Step 4: Select Payment Option
• Choose the payment method that works for you (credit/debit card or other options available).
• If applicable, apply any promotional codes or discounts before finalizing your payment.
Step 5: Confirm Your Spot
• After completing your payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your enrollment details, program schedule, and any next steps.
• Save this email for your records.
Step 6: Prepare Your Child for Success
• Review the welcome materials sent in your confirmation email, including any preparation tips, supplies needed, or program expectations.
• Encourage your child to bring their excitement and creativity to the program!
Step 7: Start the Journey
• Arrive at the designated location (for in-person programs) or log in to the online portal (for virtual sessions) on the scheduled date.
• Watch your child grow in confidence, creativity, and leadership as they start down this transformative journey!
I don't have time to take my kids to one more activity.
I get it! We're all out there braving the crazy afternoon traffic and juggling multiple schedules. But that is a small investment compared to the lifelong skills your child will be learning. Drive them now so they don't drive YOU crazy later!
Is this worth the money?
The return on investment in your child’s future is immeasurable. Young Startup Academy equips kids with practical skills and the mindset to take initiative, overcome challenges, and thrive in any path they choose—skills that last a lifetime.
I don't know if this is for us.
Even if your child doesn't plan to run their own business, these skills will benefit them in school, relationships, and future careers. Entrepreneurship is only the beginning—our program is about building lifelong skills like confidence, leadership, problem-solving, and much more.