A paid internship that gives you the opportunity to explore the startup ecosystem, network with professional entrepreneurs, and build community with peers from all different backgrounds—all while working to create and pitch your own business ideas!
We’re currently gathering interest for our next national cohort of Be Your Own Boss! If you don’t live in Chicago but want to get involved in Be Your Own Boss, please fill out the Be Your Own Boss (National) Interest Form so we can let you know once applications are open.
All Chicago-based cohorts of Be Your Own Boss for the current 2022-23 school year have officially ended.
If you’re interested in participating in Be Your Own Boss in the 2023-24 school year, please fill out the 2023-2024 Be Your Own Boss (Chicago) Interest Form or click the button below.
FOR STUDENTS AT CHICAGO PUBLIC & CHARTER SCHOOLS
OPEN TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 15 | APRIL 18 - MAY 11 | MAY 30 - JUNE 22
VIRTUAL (WITH ONE IN-PERSON DAY)
PARTICIPANTS EARN CASH STIPEND
CLIMB THE LADDER TO SUCCESS
Make friends, earn money, and build your network with the “Be Your Own Boss” Internship. A fun, interactive experience, this internship will give you the skills you need to take control of your future and succeed in the 21st Century.
BUILD YOUR NETWORK
Successful entrepreneurs often cite their network as the secret to their success. Be Your Own Boss helps you build your own network, connecting you with other hardworking peers, entrepreneurs, and experienced business leaders. You’ll have fun and make friends at the same time.
Fun & Engaging Environment Students like you learn while completing fun group projects and activities
Entrepreneur Led Instructors are all seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders
STEM Integration Program lessons incorporate andencourage STEM development
VIP Access Participants like you get backstage access to entrepreneurship in Chicago and across the country
Expands Social Capital Connect with inspiring, hardworking peers from across the country
Builds Network Make meaningful connections with top entrepreneurs and tech leaders
Career Exposure Learn about new career paths and opportunities
Paid Participation Earn a cash stipend based on your attendance and participation
EXPLORE THE ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM
Gain VIP access to entrepreneurship in Chicago and beyond. Entrepreneurs are doers, so we’ve designed each day to be hands-on, different and fun. During the internship, you’ll work in teams to create a business idea, build a basic working app prototype, and pitch your app at a virtual community showcase.
"Future Founders is such a memorable experience. You walk away with more tools in your toolbox, and the immense satisfaction of knowing you too can create your own company."
"The Be Your Own Boss Summer Internship provides you with the chance to not only experience entrepreneurship, but to develop yourself as well, which makes it really unique.”
What are the program dates?
The Be Your Own Boss Virtual Internship runs various cycles throughout the year. Check the top of this page for details on our next session(s).
How does the stipend work?
Participating students have the opportunity to earn a cash stipend over the course of the program. The stipend is based on attendance and active participation. The stipend schedule will be discussed on the first day of the program.
How can my child get access to this program?
Acceptance to the Be Your Own Boss Virtual Internship requires both an online application and virtual interview. Due to the high volume of interest, our two-step application helps to find the most engaged and committed students. The application isn’t based on grades or prior experience in entrepreneurship. We are looking for students from all backgrounds and experiences who are interested in exploring this industry.
Where is the program located?
The Be Your Own Boss Internship is a virtual-first program for students in the Chicago area, with opportunities for special in-person events held in downtown Chicago (depending on local health and safety regulations at the time of the program).
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