The Richland Area Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting applications for the third annual Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA! Richland).
A free informational session will be held on Wednesday, September 6 from 6 PM to 7 PM at the Chamber office, 55 North Mulberry Street in downtown Mansfield.
This is a 25-week program that teaches Richland County middle and high school students the skills needed to become their own successful business owners. Students will brainstorm ideas, write business plans, pitch their plans to a group of investors, obtain funding, launch their enterprise and actually sell their products or services. Along the way they will register their business with the State of Ohio, open a business bank account, and get a tax ID number. They will also work with business professionals to build a brand identity and create a website and a social media presence.
The students will hear from local business owners, take trips to area businesses to see how they function, and have a personal mentor to guide them along the process. Students are able to create a business by themselves or they are welcome to start a business with a group of other students. At the end of the program, the students will participate in a the Trade Show where their businesses, products, and services will be on display for the community to see.
RSVPs are requested. To do so, contact Nikki Lewis, Program Manager, at (419) 522-3211 or [email protected].