Now accepting applications from students interested in learning about grit, growth, and creativity

Sure, good grades and test scores are important in high school. But budding entrepreneurs also need to learn about grit, problem-solving, and creativity. That’s what the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs promises.

The school is a residential summer program, taking place at Northern Kentucky University, where Kentucky teens focus on product innovation and business model design. It’s taking applications for its summer 2022 program for students currently in grades 9-11. The program will take place at NKU in two separate sessions: June 12-July 2 and July 10-30.

GSE brings students from across the state into a three-week residential program. Teams of high school students develop business models, design prototypes, and pitch their startups to an audience and a panel of judges.

More than 20 new businesses have been launched by GSE alumni. Others have filed for patents and developed new ideas and business relationships. Dozens of alumni have enrolled in entrepreneurial programs at Kentucky universities.

GSE is a relative newcomer on the list of Kentucky Governor’s Schools, having opened to its first group of teen entrepreneurs in 2013.

Entrepreneurs leave the program with the real-world tools to start a business and a network of contacts from around the state, which includes other students, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders.

The program is free for selected entrepreneurs. It’s supported by the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, the Cabinet for Economic Development, Toyota, Blue North, Newport on the Levee, Aviatra Accelerators, Cintrifuse, and other public and private supporters.

Applications are due by Jan. 24, and selections will be announced in April. Students who attend GSE can earn high school class credits.

Click here for more information and to apply.