Lexington, KY (June 22 - July 13, 2025) - The Governor's School for Entrepreneurs Summer Startup 2025 will be held at the University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business & Economics!
GSE’s Summer Startup is a free three-week immersive learning and residential program where high school entrepreneurs from across the state (Kentucky 9th, 10th and 11th graders) come together on a college campus to create innovative solutions to real world problems. Participants will gain vital entrepreneurial skills, make connections, and transform their lives whether they head to college, start a business, or both. Click here to check out the winners from Summer 2024!
GSE Mission Statement
From high school through college and into the business world, GSE empowers the dreams of Kentucky students who have the grit, drive, and passion to be Bluegrass entrepreneurs and create jobs here. Kentucky was one of the first states in the nation to create a Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs. Since our first class of 49 high school students in 2013, we have served more than 1500 students with our high school and collegiate programs.
Summer Startup Es have launched more than 70 businesses and filed multiple patents. Collegiate Pitch Es are growing their enterprises across the state.
GSE is an independent, non-profit 501c3. Student programs are free, thanks to strong partnerships with the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet and the Cabinet for Economic Development, along with support from private donors and public foundations. GSE Summer Startup has the power to impact your life in many great and lasting ways.
Outcomes
Be an E - Give all you’ve got for three weeks. The payoff lasts a lifetime, personally and professionally.
Think Like An Entrepreneur - Entrepreneurs are problem solvers. Summer Startup is an authentic immersion into real-world entrepreneurship. The skills you develop will serve you in school, at home, and in the business world.
Learn How To Lean Into Failure - Failure can be scary, but you’ll learn to fail without fear – a critical component of the calculated risk-taking required to be a successful entrepreneur. Taking risks and learning from failure aren’t just part of running a business, they’re part of life.
Start or Improve Your Business - Maybe you’ve already got a side-hustle or a full-fledged business – you’ll learn how to make it better. Perhaps you’re dreaming of starting your own company someday – you’ll leave with a solid understanding of how to make that happen.
Connections and Friendships - We hear it all the time: The professional and personal networks our Es develop during Summer Startup are lasting and impactful. You’ll be surrounded by others who share your passion for entrepreneurship. Be ready to work hard, have fun, and make lifelong connections.
Questions?
Phone: (502) 592-0520
Email: info@KentuckyGSE.com