Business mentors needed for young entrepreneurs in Palatine

A program based in Palatine that teaches young students the skills to start a real-life business needs about 10 adult mentors for six weeks beginning Feb. 16.

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy, a national program, is offered to 12- to 14-year-olds by the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Palatine Township Elementary School District 15.

Palatine's is the only chamber of commerce in Illinois that offers the YEA program, said Steven Gaus, executive director of the chamber.

"Students are learning real-life skills and business acumen not available in the standard school curriculum," he said. "Our mentors have found this to be a rewarding experience to guide these motivated young people."

Mentors are needed to help students work on their business plans, which are based on a template. Mentors and students meet virtually for about an hour a week.

For more information, visit palatinechamber.com/yea, call (847) 359-7200 or email sgaus@palatinechamber.com.