Last week, I met with a board member from the Girls Scouts. It was an inspirational lunch filled with the potential – and actions – of what is possible for this generation of girls and women. One thing I was particularly proud of was being part of a start-up dance company in Washington, DC. Then, young entrepreneurs got a pat on the back and – maybe – a hike in their allowance. Now, these young entrepreneurs can win between $1,000 and $10,000 toward their college education.
When: Starting October 1, The NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation will begin accepting applications for the 2011 Young Entrepreneur Awards.
Who: NFIB Young Entrepreneur Awards are open to any graduating high school senior entering their freshman year at an accredited (not for profit) two- or four-year university, college or vocational/technical institute.
Applicants MUST be running their own small business in order to be considered for an award.
Awards: Scholarships awarded vary in amounts between $1,000 and $10,000, and one applicant will be named the NFIB Young Entrepreneur of the year.
Background: Since 2003, the NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation has awarded 2,095 scholarships to graduating high school seniors totaling $2,382,000.
Application Link: More information about the awards, plus the award application, can be found here: www.NFIB.com/yea.
Who am I going to push to complete this application? Some of my FAVORITE young female entrepreneurs are the founders of the girl band/social entrepreneurs: The Bonde who are singing everywhere from NBA games, to the State Department, to the UN. Check them out on Facebook.