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!
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
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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
Application Fee: $50
SPONSORship opportunities

If you have any questions or disability accommodations (e.g., sign language interpreters, alternative formats) please contact us.
NAYEP is made possible in part by generous support from the Udall Foundation.