A paid virtual internship that teaches you how to create and pitch your own business idea while you get a VIP tour of Chicago’s startup community.
Applications for Be Your Own Boss are currently closed. Click the button below to join our waitlist and be the first to learn when future applications open up.
FOR CHICAGO STUDENTS
OPEN TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
CYCLE 1: OCT. 11-28 CYCLE 2: NOV. 1-18
100% VIRTUAL
PARTICIPANTS EARN CASH STIPEND
CLIMB THE LADDER TO SUCCESS
Make friends, earn money, and build your network this summer with the “Be Your Own Boss” Summer 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 Chicago 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 and encourage STEM development
VIP Access Participants like you get backstage access to entrepreneurship in Chicago
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
Paid Participation Earn a cash stipend based on your attendance and participation
GET A TASTE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CHICAGO
Spend your summer gaining 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 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 Internship runs in two cycles. Cycle 1 runs October 1 – 28, and Cycle 2 runs November 1 – 18.
How does the stipend work?
Participating students have the opportunity to earn a $300 (summer cohorts) or $250 (school year cohorts) 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 Summer 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 Summer Internship operates out of 1871. 1871 is the #1 University Affiliated Startup Incubator in the world and it is located on the 12th floor of the Merchandise Mart. NOTE: The BYOB Internship is currently 100% virtual due to COVID-19.
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