Native American Youth Entrepreneurship Program

Native American Youth Entrepreneurship Program (NAYEP)

A 5-day intensive workshop to build entrepreneurial skills & gain real-world experience from Indigenous professionals

NAYEP Postponed Until Summer 2024

Due to concerns about the online format for this year’s event, we’ve made the difficult decision to postpone our annual NAYEP. We intend to use that time to focus on creating an unforgettable in-person experience for Native high school students interested in building their own businesses for the summer of 2024. Stay tuned!

SPONSOR A YOUTH

Are you interested in being your own boss and making your own money?

Do you have a product or service idea you'd like to turn into a business?

IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK, YOU WILL:

Transform ideas into a business outline by doing fun, hands-on activities

Learn leadership skills from Native American business professionals

Collaborate with students from Native nations from across the U.S.

Win gift card prizes & UArizona swag

The aim of NAYEP is to foster skills to encourage private-sector development in Indian Country by teaching high-school youth the basics of economics, computer skills, strategies for success, and business-plan preparation. With the guidance of experienced instructors and Indigenous business leaders, NNI’s NAYEP teaches high school students how to build entrepreneurial skills and how to actualize a business idea. Classes are currently offered virtually.

DAY 1 Monday: What Is Entrepreneurship?

DAY 2 Tuesday: Defining Your Product/Service

DAY 3 Wednesday: Marketing & Identifying Your Target Market

DAY 4 Thursday: The Costs of Doing Business

DAY 5 Friday: Speed Pitch Showcase

Attendance for all 5 days is required

A computer or mobile device with a reliable internet connection (Note: Mobile devices (smart phones, tablets) are supported but may not be ideal for required assignments)
Up-to-date internet browser
Headphones, earbuds or speakers
Webcam and microphone
Word processing application to save and open Microsoft Office files (Word, Excel, and Power Point) and access to the Google online suite

Must be a student in high school grades 9-12 as of fall 2023 (or a graduating senior May 2023)
Must identify as Indigenous and reside within the United States