The Youthpreneurs of NW Washington Awards recognize young entrepreneurs who are ready to launch a business, develop a product, or pursue professional development. We believe Whatcom and Skagit Counties will be stronger when we invest early in future business leaders.
https://highlinewa.com/
https://brandonnelson.com/
https://kentsgardenandnursery.com/
2025 applications closed.
Youth Entrepreneur Awards in Northwest Washington
AWARD AMOUNTS:
(1) Youthpreneur of the Year: $5,000
(2) Youthpreneur Honorable Mentions: $2,000 each
SOURCE OF FUNDS: Highline Construction, Kent’s Garden & Nursery, and Brandon Nelson - Compass
AWARDS AVAILABLE: 3
APPLICATION DEADLINE: The open application window will run from May 1, 2025 through June 15, 2025 or close once 50 qualified applications have been received, whichever comes first.
WINNER ANNOUNCED: The award winners will be announced no later than August 15, 2025. Funds will be granted in full to the winner no later than August 31, 2025.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE: Both individuals and teams of two may apply. For an application to be considered, the applicant(s) must:
- Be between the ages of 16-21 at the time of application. Youth under the age of 18 require parental consent to apply.
- Have lived in Whatcom County, WA or Skagit County, WA for at least six of the past twelve months.
- Operate an existing business – OR- have an established business plan with the intention to execute on a new business or entrepreneurial idea -OR- currently be pursuing a college-level business degree or certificate.
- Consent to their story and their image or likeness being shared by program sponsors and cross-promoted in any media format.
TO APPLY: All applicants are required to complete the online application form, including:
- General information
- Short answer questions (responses max 900 characters each)
- Please describe yourself/selves. What is your background? What brings you joy?
- What does entrepreneurship mean to you and why do you want to be an entrepreneur?
- How have you displayed resilience and how do you stay motivated to succeed?
- Describe your current business, business idea, or purpose for pursuing a business education and any steps you have already taken in support of your goals.
- What inspired your business, business idea, or educational pursuit? Why do you think it will work?
- Describe any barriers to growing your business, starting your business, or financing your education and how this award money would help alleviate or resolve those barriers.
- What else sets you apart or makes your story unique? This may include special achievements or life experiences.
- 3 recommendation videos, each 1-2 minutes in length
- 2-3 minute video pitch
- 3 images
- Parental Consent (for applicants under 18 years of age)
- Media Waiver
- Grant limitations acknowledgement
Only complete applications will be considered.
Application videos may be taken on a smartphone or any digital camera and are not expected to be professionally-produced.
LIMITATION OF FUNDS: One Youthpreneur of the Year recipient or team will receive $5,000, while two Honorable Mention recipients or teams will each receive $2,000. All funds awarded shall be used to cover expenses that advance the winners’ business efforts, entrepreneurial ideas, or college-level business degrees. This may include supplies, business planning, business travel, training, IT-infrastructure, space, time, tuition, etc. Funds shall not be used for any personal expenses not related to the declared professional endeavors.
SELECTION PROCESS: The application review process will be managed by Highline Construction. All qualifying applications will be advanced for review to a panel of three reviewers, one from each program sponsor, who will work collectively to select award recipients based on the following considerations:
- Feasibility: Are the applicant’s goals clear and achievable?
- Tenacity and Perseverance: Has the applicant illustrated their ability to be tenacious and persevere through failure? Are they committed to their goals?
- Eagerness to Learn: Has the applicant committed to their learning in ways that go above and beyond their same-aged peers?
- Support Network: Do the recommendation videos give you confidence that the individual has a network of people who believe in them, are rooting for them, and will serve as mentors, advocates, counselors, and cheerleaders as the applicant pursues their goals?
- Wow-Factor: How much has the applicant inspired you to root for them?
What are you waiting for? Become a youthpreneur. Apply now.
