Arizona Teens Compete for $1K in Business Boot Camp

Aspiring teenage entrepreneurs in Graham and Greenlee counties have a shot at turning their business dreams into reality this summer, complete with a $1,000 grand prize.

Eastern Arizona College is hosting a free Young Entrepreneur Excellence Training program from June 8 to 11, 2026. The four-day boot camp gives high schoolers hands-on experience building a business from the ground up.

Students will learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship directly from successful local business owners who've navigated the challenges of starting and growing companies. The program runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day at EAC's Thatcher campus, with free snacks and lunch provided.

The week culminates in a Shark Tank-style pitch competition where teens present their business concepts to a panel of judges. First place wins $1,000 cash, with additional prizes for second and third place finishers.

The program is presented by EAC's Small Business Development Center and sponsored by United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties. Program organizers say the community investment reflects a commitment to developing the next generation of local business leaders.

The Ripple Effect

Programs like this create opportunity in rural areas where entrepreneurship education isn't always accessible. By connecting teens with successful local entrepreneurs, the program builds mentorship relationships that can last well beyond the four days.

The cash prizes also provide seed money that young entrepreneurs might not otherwise have access to. For rural students with big ideas but limited resources, that $1,000 could be the difference between a concept that stays on paper and one that launches.

Space is limited, and registration is required. Students can sign up through the Y.E.S. (Youth Entrepreneur Success) program page, by calling 928-428-8590, or emailing sbdc@eac.edu.

The future of small business in Arizona is getting a head start this June.