Launch Your Future
Go From
Student to CEO
Students in YEA BR get a head start on their futures with in-person classes at LSU’s Business Education Complex, home of the E. J. Ourso College of Business. At YEA BR, students don’t just learn about business—they launch one. With one-on-one mentorship from Baton Rouge entrepreneurs and real, hands-on experience, they turn bold ideas into real-world ventures.
What Is YEA BR?
YEA BR empowers high school students with real-world business experience, one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders, and meaningful networking opportunities. Participants launch and register their own companies with the Secretary of State while building the public speaking and pitch skills they’ll use for life.
Start a business with expert guidance
Learn in person at LSU’s Business Education Complex
Build confidence, creativity, & leadership
Pitch like a pro & earn startup seed funding
Impact that Moves Students Forward
450
Student-run companies launched
450
Hours of one-on-one mentorship with local pros
450
Funds distributed through our annual community pitch
450
College-credit pathway through LSU
YEA BR students enjoy dynamic, in-person classes inside the LSU Business Education Complex—the home of the E. J. Ourso College of Business.
Complete the program and qualify for three LSU credits.*
*Credit policies are set by LSU. Learn More.
Build a Business. Earn LSU Credit.
Your Entrepreneurship Playbook
PLAN
Write a business plan with clear goals, budget, timeline, and go-to-market steps.
REGISTER
File your business with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office and make it official.
GENERATE
Generate business ideas tied to your interests—and choose the one with real market potential.
PITCH
Present to a Shark Tank–style panel for seed funding and feedback from local leaders.
Mentor Next Gen Business Leaders
Share what you know. Change a student’s trajectory.
At YEA BR, mentors guide students from idea to launch—offering real-world advice on branding, finance, product, marketing, operations, and more. Whether you can review a pitch, give feedback on a business plan, or share your industry expertise, your experience helps a young entrepreneur go from student to CEO.
What Mentors Do:
Coach students through idea validation
Give feedback on pitches and business plans
Share valuable industry expertise
Open doors through your network and expertise
Invest in Baton Rouge’s Business Future
The students of YEA BR thrive thanks to the generosity of our community and sponsors. Your support underwrites hands-on learning at LSU’s Business Education Complex, mentorship, program materials, and pitch opportunities—so students can launch real companies with confidence.
How sponsorship makes a difference:
Funds program delivery and student support
Expands mentorship and networking opportunities
Powers pitch night and alumni success stories
Real Businesses, Real Results.
YEA BR Alumni Spotlight
Leila Ramos (2025) launched Hope Resuscitated to provide free Narcan and overdose education across Baton Rouge. The idea might have stayed an idea—until Leila joined YEA BR. Here, she gained the skills, confidence, and support to make a real community impact.