Startup UCLA Summer High School Accelerator

The **Startup UCLA Summer High School Accelerator** from **UCLA** is an intensive **business program** for motivated high school students interested in **entrepreneurship** and innovation. Hosted by UCLA Anderson and connected to the Los Angeles tech and startup community, this accelerator introduces students to real-world business concepts in **finance**, **marketing**, and **leadership**. Participants work in teams to develop and refine their own startup ideas while learning directly from UCLA Anderson faculty and experienced entrepreneurs. During the program, students gain practical, hands-on experience with the full startup journey. You’ll learn how to identify a problem, validate a market, build a business model, and pitch your idea with confidence. Expect guidance in key areas such as customer research, budgeting and basic **finance**, branding and **marketing** strategy, and effective **leadership** in team settings. Students also receive mentoring from startup founders and professionals in the LA tech ecosystem, giving them insight into what it really takes to launch and grow a business. **Key benefits for students include:** - Developing core **entrepreneurship** skills that stand out on college applications - Building a strong resume with a completed startup project and pitch experience - Gaining exposure to college-level business concepts at a top university environment For high school students (typically grades 9–12) who are curious about business, technology, or launching their own venture, this accelerator offers a clear pathway from idea to action. The **Startup UCLA Summer High School Accelerator** is especially valuable for rising juniors and seniors planning to study business, economics, or related fields, or those who simply want to build confidence, teamwork skills, and real-world problem-solving abilities. Students who should apply are those who enjoy creating, collaborating, and taking initiative—no prior business experience required. This program stands out because it combines UCLA Anderson’s academic expertise with direct access to Los Angeles’ startup community, giving high school students a rare chance to experience a true accelerator environment before college.