Douglas County, in partnership with Network Kansas, Lawrence Chamber of Commerce and K-State Research and Extension, is proud to support the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) program. Douglas County is one of many communities across Kansas to host a locally organized event designed to give junior and high school age students a hands-on entrepreneurship experience.
The annual competition consists of students preparing a written business plan, an executive summary, an elevator speech, a formal presentation and trade show display. Students compete against each other for $3,000 in prize money. The students’ work is judged by local entrepreneurs, teachers and community leaders. During past competitions, students have pitched businesses that offer swimming lessons, resale clothing, jewelry, baked goods and pet sitting.