Embarking on an internship while still in high school isn't just about filling up your summer break—it's a strategic move to stand out in college applications and jumpstart your future career. Particularly for students interested in the dynamic world of business, entrepreneurship internships offer a glimpse into the rigorous process of building a company from the ground up. 

Early exposure to entrepreneurship through internships can be a game-changer when it comes to college admissions. Admissions officers are on the lookout for candidates who demonstrate initiative, creativity, and a drive to take on challenges—all qualities honed by entrepreneurial experiences. Engaging in internships also shows a commitment to understanding and solving real-world problems, making you a more attractive candidate to prestigious programs. 

In this blog, we explore 6 entrepreneurship internships tailored for high school students!

1. Ladder Internships

The Ladder Internship is a highly selective program designed to provide students with virtual internship opportunities at startups and nonprofits worldwide. These startups span various industries, allowing students to choose the field they are most passionate about exploring. It's an excellent chance for students to delve into areas they may be interested in and gain insight into potential career paths. Startups participating in the program are located globally, primarily in the United States, Asia, Europe, and the UK, covering diverse fields such as technology, finance, environmental science, healthcare, media, and more.

Through the internship, students will tackle real-world projects vital to their assigned startup and present their work upon completion. Additionally, each intern will receive support from both their startup manager and a dedicated Ladder Coach, who serves as a mentor and guide throughout the internship. The program includes personalized training in communication, time management, and other essential skills, along with group training sessions with fellow interns. Internships typically last for eight weeks, providing students with a comprehensive and immersive virtual learning experience.

Location: Virtual

Cost: $1990. Financial aid is available.

Eligibility: Open to all high school students.

Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year. The deadline for the upcoming summer cohort is May 12, 2024.

Program Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year.

2. Young Founders Lab

While this isn't a traditional internship, you will have the chance to learn + work on your own startup, and receive opportunities to network and learn from seasoned entrepreneurs.

The Young Founder’s Lab, a start-up bootcamp established by Harvard entrepreneurs, offers high school students a unique opportunity to dive into the world of business creation. This intensive program focuses on guiding participants through the process of building a start-up that not only generates revenue but also solves real-world problems. Throughout the program, you'll benefit from direct mentorship by seasoned entrepreneurs and professionals from leading companies such as Google, Microsoft, and X.

In addition to the practical experience of developing a start-up, you will engage in interactive classes that cover business fundamentals and ideation, enhancing your understanding of what it takes to launch a successful business. This program is an excellent platform for high school students interested in entrepreneurship and business. It not only allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings but also helps you build a network of like-minded peers and industry experts. The knowledge and skills gained here can serve as a significant advantage in both your educational journey and future career paths. If you’re interested in exploring this dynamic field, consider checking out the brochure for more detailed information about the program.

Location: This program is 100% virtual, with live, interactive workshops 

Cost: The total cost to attend the 4-week program is $2900. Need-based financial aid is offered. 

Eligibility: The program is currently open to all high school students

Application Deadline: Early Decision Deadline: March 17th, 2024 | Regular Admission Deadline 1: April 14, 2024 | Regular Admission Deadline 2: May 12th, 2023. You can access the application link here.

Program Dates: The 2024 session starts on June 5 and spans 4-weeks.

3. LaunchX Summer Entrepreneurship Programs

LaunchX is a highly selective entrepreneurial program that boasts an admissions rate of only 10-20%. The program is designed to immerse students in an environment that mirrors a combination of an accelerator, startup conference, and a summer internship, providing them with a comprehensive experience in business creation. Guided by experienced mentors and surrounded by like-minded peers—affectionately known as "Launchies"—participants work collaboratively to turn their startup ideas into reality. The primary goal of LaunchX is to empower students to create and launch viable businesses, encouraging collaboration and co-founder relationships among participants. 

For a detailed overview of what LaunchX offers, interested students can access their comprehensive program guide here.

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan | UC Berkeley | Online

Cost: Varied costs. Some financial aid is available.

Eligibility: All high school students may apply. 

Application deadline: April 24, 2024

Program dates: Dates vary for the in-person and online programs. Check details here!

4. Entrepreneurship at Georgetown University

At Georgetown University's intensive entrepreneurship program, high school students have the opportunity to deepen both their theoretical understanding and practical skills in the field of entrepreneurship. Participants will engage in a dynamic learning environment that includes workshops, lectures, and collaborative group projects, all designed to provide a real-world glimpse into the challenges and rewards of starting a business. 

A highlight of the program is the chance to develop and refine an original business idea, which culminates in a pitch competition before actual entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. This provides a valuable platform for students to receive constructive feedback and gain confidence in their entrepreneurial capabilities. Throughout the program, mentors are available to guide students in refining their business concepts. 

Location: Georgetown University, Washington D.C. (a portion of the program will be conducted virtually)

Cost: $1,795

Eligibility: Current high school students 

Application deadline: Session I: March 10, 2024 | Session II: March 31, 2024 | Session III: April 28, 2024

Program dates: Session I: March 17 to 31, 2024 | Session II: April 7 to May 5, 2024 | Session III: May 5 to June 2, 2024

5. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program annually selects approximately 300 high school students who demonstrate a strong commitment to their communities. Participants in this highly competitive program are given the opportunity to engage in an eight-week paid internship with leading nonprofit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Habitat for Humanity. This internship allows students to gain firsthand experience in community service and nonprofit operations, enriching their understanding of social impact.

In addition to the local internship, the program features a week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, DC, which is fully funded by Bank of America. The summit provides a unique platform for Student Leaders to learn about the interconnected roles of nonprofits, government, and businesses in meeting community needs. Through workshops, lectures, and panel discussions, participants gain insights into the mechanics of collaboration and leadership necessary to drive societal change. 

Location: The program is held all across the country – you will be assigned a local non-profit organization to work with in your region/area. The Leadership Summit will be held in Washington DC.

Stipend: It is a paid internship, but no information is available on the exact amount. The trip to Washington DC is covered by the bank!

Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply. See all eligibility criteria here.

Application Deadline: Applications open in October and typically close in January.

Program dates:  8-week summer internship, including an all expenses-covered week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, DC. Dates vary by location, but the internship usually begins shortly after the school year ends.

6. Ladders for Leaders

Ladders for Leaders is a component of New York City's Summer Youth Employment Program. This program provides high school and college students with the opportunity to participate in paid professional internships during the summer months. Students selected for Ladders for Leaders undergo a rigorous application process and receive 30 hours of pre-employment training to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.

This initiative not only provides valuable professional experience to the youth but also benefits participating organizations by connecting them with talented and prepared interns ready to contribute to their operations. Ladders for Leaders is an excellent opportunity for young individuals to kickstart their careers and gain exposure in their fields of interest while also contributing meaningfully to New York City.

Location: New York City

Cost: No cost. Students will receive a stipend.

Eligibility: Applicants must be between 16 and 21 years old with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Participants must be residents of NYC and have some prior work experience.

Application deadline: January 21, 2024

Program dates: 6 weeks in the summer

One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you’re interested in pursuing research in business and related fields, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students I founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.