Leading Business March | Page 8

The start of something BIG Young Entrepreneurs Academy connects students and mentors to develop start-up businesses For high school students in the local Young Entrepreneurs Academy, this unique program is more than just an extracurricular activity. Sponsored locally by the Greater Elkhart Chamber, YEA! spans the school year and has supported more than 30 young adults in building a business of their very own, whether it be selling customized leather bracelets or creating recyclable paper towels harkening back to the frugality of World War II. Born of inspiration and built out of passion, these emerging businesses are the offspring of the strong entrepreneurial spirit of the Elkhart community. These roots