Innovation Hub partners with Junior Achievement to boost high school entrepreneurs

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) 186 views 

The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub has partnered with the Junior Achievement of Arkansas to launch HubX-NextGen, a high school entrepreneurial development program giving students the opportunity to establish and manage new businesses in a team-based format.
The new program will be directed by the Innovation Hub’s Jeff Stinson who oversees entrepreneurial programming.
“I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to work with area high school students to teach the fundamental principles behind starting and growing a business, while incorporating the lean startup methodology used in leading universities around the country,” Stinson said in a press release. “Additionally, these students will get to work alongside some of the most innovative healthcare founders in the country as part of HubX-LifeSciences, which will be taking place in parallel at the Innovation Hub. We think the synergies between the two groups will be a special opportunity for both.”
The Innovation Hub will host HubX-NextGen for 15 weeks, from April 25 to August 5.
Twenty-five students ages 16-18 will help teams plan and launch real-world companies. The students and HubX-NextGen will utilize official curriculum from the Junior Achievement’s company program.
“We’re excited to partner with the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub on this new project,” said Chad Kauffman, president of Junior Achievement of Arkansas. “We believe in the unlimited potential of young people and HubX—NextGen is going to provide those who participate with remarkable opportunities. Marrying Junior Achievement’s time-tested curriculum with the Innovation Hub’s world-class staff and facilities will provide a one-of-a-kind platform for youth innovation.”
Participants will be able to access the various resources of the Innovation Hub. Students will also receive mentorship from successful Arkansas business leaders and entrepreneurs along with working with experts in marketing, legal, finance, public relations, and accounting.
Students, parents, and guardians can learn more about HubX—NextGen at an informational session held the at the Innovation Hub on Thursday, March 3, at 5:30 p.m. at 201 East Broadway in North Little Rock.
The cost to participate in HubX—NextGen is $750 and scholarships are available. The first cohort will include 25 spots and the deadline for applications is March 28.
Interested students can learn more and apply at http://www.arhub.org/hubx-nextgen.