A free internship empowering Chicago high school students to build and launch their own online businesses.
Applications for the Launch Lab Summer 2022 Internship are due by June 30. Click the “Apply” button below to learn more and apply today!
FOR CHICAGO STUDENTS
OPEN TO RISING SOPHOMORES, JUNIORS & SENIORS
JULY 19, 2022 - AUGUST 11, 2022
4-WEEK HYBRID PROGRAM
PARTICIPANTS EARN CASH REWARDS
Turning your idea into a real business is tough, especially when you don’t know where to start. During this one-month experience, Future Founders will show you what it takes to operate an e-commerce store, and help you get your business off the ground. Students do not need to have any direct entrepreneurship experience but need to be excited about and committed to launching and operating a business.
BUIILD YOUR NETWORK AND YOUR PLATFORM
Successful entrepreneurs often cite their network as the secret to their success. Launch Lab helps you build your own e-commerce platform while connecting you with other hardworking peers, entrepreneurs, and Chicago business leaders.
Fun & Engaging Environment Learn while completing fun group projects and activities
Entrepreneur Led Instructors are all seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders
Hybrid Program LaunchLab is a blend of virtual and in-person programming
Relevant Content Program workshops focused on skills you need to start your business
Expands Social Capital Connect with inspiring, hardworking peers from across Chicago
Builds Network Make meaningful connections with top entrepreneurs and tech leaders
Career Exposure Learn about new career paths and opportunities
Earn Cash Rewards Participants can keep the proceeds from any sales their store makes
GET A TASTE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Gain VIP access to entrepreneurship in Chicago. Entrepreneurs are doers, so we’ve designed each day to be hands-on, different, and fun. During the internship, you’ll build your online business individually but work with a team of students to build, learn, and grow your online businesses together.
WHEN AND WHERE IS THE PROGRAM LOCATED?
Launch Lab is a hybrid program (meeting virtually + in-person) that runs for 8-weeks. Launch Lab will run virtually two days a week from June 21 – August 11 from 9:30 am – 11:30 am. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and students will have self-directed assignments to complete on their own on Wednesdays.
We will meet in-person five times throughout the program. Students must attend all in-person sessions to complete the program. In-person sessions will take place at Future Founders’ office in 1871 (Merchandise Mart in downtown Chicago). Lunch and snacks will be included.
When and where is the program located?
The days and times for in-person programming: Tuesday, June 28: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Tuesday, July 12: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Tuesday, July 26: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Tuesday, August 9: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Wednesday, August 10: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
How will students receive money from online sales?
As part of the program, students will launch and own their e-commerce shop. Students will need to provide their social security number to establish an account and secure money from sales. If students are under 18, we will need parent/guardian permission for the student to be part of the program.
How can my child get access to the program?
Acceptance to Launch Lab 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. We are looking for students from all backgrounds and experiences interested in starting an online business.
Who is eligible to apply?
To participate in Future Founders LaunchPad, you must currently be enrolled as a Junior or Senior at a Chicago Public High School or Chicago Charter School.
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