Northeast Ohio January 2026 YEI News: Student Competitions and Events, Educator PD, and More!

YEI EDUCATOR ADVISORY GROUP

We are excited to be creating a process to recognize K-12 educators' dedication to teaching entrepreneurship.

We have developed a framework and are now looking for a larger group of advisors to continue collaborating and be the first participants. From defining key skills and professional learning opportunities to aligning student programs and district needs, your insights will play a central role.

If you are interested in joining this group and the stipend involved, please contact Elizabeth Clymer. 

BASE CONFERENCE FOR AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER EDUCATORS

YEI is thrilled to be presenting a workshop at the Buckeye Afterschool and Summer Excellence (BASE) Conference taking place February 26-27. Join Afterschool and Summer Learning professionals from around Ohio for this inspirational two-day event to learn, network and gain amazing resources to use in your work with youth, with families, and in your community. Learn more and purchase ticket.

FREE RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS

YIPPEE Exchange is the go-to place for entrepreneurship education. It easily connects educators with real-world entrepreneurs and hands-on learning experiences – helping students build the skills and mindsets they need to thrive.

Educators can access a curated selection of:

• Field trips
• Workshops
• Lesson plans
• And more!

Most resources are available at no cost, thanks to the generous support of YIPPEE’s sponsors. Learn more about YIPPEE Exchange.

THINKBIG! CHALLENGE - ENTER BY FEBRUARY 4
THINKBIG! SUMMIT - MARCH 3

Northeast Ohio high school students can now enter their executive summaries for the thinkBIG! Challenge, an online business plan competition open to all high school students in Northeast Ohio. The competition offers $9,000 in prizes. The deadline for executive summary online submissions is Wednesday, February 4. Learn more about the thinkBIG! Challenge.

The top six teams will advance to compete live at the thinkBIG! Summit on Tuesday, March 3. This is an inspirational one-day conference limited to Northeast Ohio high school students, where finalists compete for cash prizes and the prestigious Veale Innovation Trophy. Attendees will have the opportunity to take part in hands-on activities, hear from a seasoned and successful serial entrepreneur, watch live pitches, network with peers and professionals, and even win prizes. Learn more about the thinkBIG! Summit.

EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS FRIDAY! TEEN ACCELERATE EVENING EVENT

High school finalists have been announced and will pitch live for a chance to win up to $1,000 on February 26 at the Huntington Convention Center. Rooted in social entrepreneurship, Teen Accelerate empowers students to use business skills to tackle real-world challenges and create meaningful change. Click here for more information and tickets.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAMP

Change Makers: Social Entrepreneurship Camp empowers students in grades 5-8 to explore how they can make a real difference in their communities.

During the week-long camp, students will explore real problems, talk to real people, and build real solutions that matter. Through interviews, teamwork, and hands-on activities, they will develop their own social impact project. The camp will culminate in an Impact Showcase where campers present their ideas to peers and guests. Learn more and register.

If you have an educator professional development event, useful curriculum, or opportunity for students to engage with the entrepreneurial mindset, please let us know. Feel free to email us with any potential features to be included in our future newsletters, we'd love to hear from you!