Learn Lifelong Entrepreneurial Skills in Three Weeks
The skills you learn, connections you make, and growth you experience at GSE’s Summer Startup have the potential to transform your life, whether you head to college, start a business, or both.
Freedom
Let go of structured textbook learning and explore your potential through your own ideas.
Empowerment
Make your own decisions and take risks that lead to personal growth.
Collaboration
Join an innovative community interested in nurturing ideas into businesses.
Important Dates
September 25, 2024
Application Opens
October - January
Virtual Info Sessions
January 21, 2025
Application Closes by 11:00 p.m. ET
January 31, 2025
Recommendations Due
April 11, 2025
Acceptance Notification
June 22 - July 13 2025
Summer Startup at the
University of Kentucky Gatton College
Outcomes
Be an E
Give all you’ve got for three weeks. The payoff lasts a lifetime, personally and professionally.
Think Like An Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs are problem solvers. Summer Startup is an authentic immersion into real-world entrepreneurship. The skills you develop will serve you in school, at home, and in the business world.
Learn How To Lean Into Failure
Failure can be scary, but you’ll learn to fail without fear – a critical component of the calculated risk-taking required to be a successful entrepreneur. Taking risks and learning from failure aren’t just part of running a business, they’re part of life.
Start or Improve Your Business
Maybe you’ve already got a side-hustle or a full-fledged business – you’ll learn how to make it better. Perhaps you’re dreaming of starting your own company someday – you’ll leave with a solid understanding of how to make that happen.
Connections and Friendships
We hear it all the time: The professional and personal networks our Es develop during Summer Startup are lasting and impactful. You’ll be surrounded by others who share your passion for entrepreneurship. Be ready to work hard, have fun, and make lifelong connections.
GSE Summer Startup has the power to impact your life in many great and lasting ways. But you don't have to take our word for it, watch this video and hear directly from students who experienced the program in 2024. Applications for 2025 open in the fall!
Am I a Good Fit for This?
Entrepreneurs come from all walks of life, and successful entrepreneurial teams require a variety of skills and personalities. All 9th, 10th, and 11th graders in Kentucky are welcome to apply for this free opportunity, and all GSE graduates qualify for millions of dollars in college scholarships.
Successful Summer Startup Entrepreneurs Are:
GSE made me realize entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money - it’s about bettering people’s lives. GSE has given me the resources to make that difference in the lives of others.
Once I became part of the GSE community, both my heart and mind opened up. Being at GSE made me a better leader, communicator, and friend. I felt myself and everyone around me growing everyday during the program and that alone is a gift.
The immense amount of knowledge and valuable skills you’ll gain at GSE will help you during your entire life, and you’ll be able to find innovative solutions to every single problem you’ll have to face.
I learned what it means to be an entrepreneur. Sacrifice, failure, and pivot all have new meanings for me. Being in such a positive and uplifting environment, I came out of my shell and made lifelong connections. GSE showed me my potential, and now it’s my turn to take what I’ve learned and make the most of it.
Application Process
You’re more than a number at the top of a test. That’s why we don’t consider GPA or test scores when we select our Es. We create teams based on skill sets, drive, and experiences.
Create your 90-second video
Show us why you’d be a great team member at Summer Startup.
Complete the online application
The usual stuff plus a few short answer questions – and your video!
Collect your recommendations
We send you a unique link to forward to your two Recommenders once you submit your application.
Applications are reviewed by experienced entrepreneurs, educators, and business leaders.
Selected students are announced in early spring.
Click here for tips on creating your best video and application.
We’re so grateful for our supporters who make it possible for GSE’s programs to be FREE for students
Apply Now to Be an E
Did we mention all of this is free? And, it can empower you to create your own success. Hit the button below to start your once-in-a-lifetime entrepreneurial experience.