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Youth

Entrepreneurship Skills for Teens: Developing a Strong Foundation

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Beginning to shape the skills and mindset necessary to flourish as an entrepreneur can start even before entering the workforce. According to Junior Achievement (JA), running a successful company depends on multiple factors, including a solid business plan, adequate startup resources and a receptive market, as well as a strong sense of responsibility, work ethic and ability to persevere under pressure. Even students in junior high and high school can begin working toward entrepreneurial goals by incorporating certain electives and experiences into their education.

Key Takeaways:

  • Selecting electives wisely can help students develop business skills and knowledge, such as accounting, marketing, finance, economics, psychology, and computer science.
  • Making part-time work meaningful can provide opportunities to practice money management and contribute to expenses while exploring options that put students closer to their entrepreneurial ambitions.
  • Participating in programs like JA's Company Program can foster creativity, critical thinking, and business acumen, offering students unique opportunities to explore the world of business and economics.
  • Seeking a strong mentor can help students sharpen their vision for the future and learn from the experiences that propelled professionals into their current positions.
  • Defining a future vision through an inspiration board can help motivated students compile and organize ideas, identify and overcome obstacles while working toward bringing their visions for careers as entrepreneurs to life.
  • Students can gain confidence and skills for future education and careers by participating in competitions, such as the Future Bound competition, which offers learning opportunities through seminars and mentorship.

Statistics:

  • 3 in 5 teens would prefer a career as an entrepreneur over a traditional job, according to a survey by Junior Achievement (JA).
  • The JA Company Program offers students unique opportunities to explore the world of business and economics by creating real companies.
  • The Future Bound competition featured four programs that empower students with entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills.

Sources:

  • Junior Achievement (JA)

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