From Classroom to CEO: Sarah's Journey with YEA

Sarah's entrepreneurial journey began in her AP Environmental Science class. "We were learning about plastic pollution, and I just couldn't stop thinking about all the packaging waste I saw every day," she recalls. "I started researching biodegradable alternatives and realized there was a huge gap in the market for affordable, sustainable packaging for small businesses."

What started as a class project quickly evolved into something more. Sarah began experimenting with different materials in her garage, testing various combinations of plant-based fibers and natural adhesives. Her parents were supportive but skeptical—until they saw her dedication.

Sarah discovered Young Entrepreneurs of America through her school counselor. "I had this idea and some prototypes, but I had no clue how to actually start a business," she admits. "YEA changed everything."

Through YEA's High School Pitch League, Sarah learned the fundamentals of business planning, financial modeling, and market research. "My mentor, Marcus, was a packaging industry veteran. He helped me understand the supply chain, connect with manufacturers, and refine my pitch," Sarah explains.

The mentorship was invaluable. Marcus introduced Sarah to sustainable material suppliers, helped her navigate regulatory requirements, and taught her how to present her vision to investors.

Six months after joining YEA, Sarah competed in the regional High School Pitch Competition. Standing before a panel of investors and entrepreneurs, she presented EcoPack Solutions—her vision for making sustainable packaging accessible to small businesses.

"I was terrified," Sarah laughs. "But I had practiced my pitch hundreds of times with my YEA cohort. When the judges started asking questions, I realized I knew my business inside and out."

Sarah won first place, securing $10,000 in seed funding and earning a spot in YEA's Startup Incubator program. "That moment validated everything. It wasn't just a school project anymore—it was a real business."

The Startup Incubator provided Sarah with workspace, legal support, and continued mentorship. She used the prize money to order her first production run and build a basic e-commerce website.

"The YEA community was incredible," Sarah says. "I had access to lawyers who helped me incorporate, accountants who set up my books, and designers who created my branding—all pro bono through YEA's mentor network."

Within three months, EcoPack Solutions had its first 20 customers—local coffee shops and boutiques looking for sustainable packaging alternatives. Sarah managed everything from her bedroom: customer service, order fulfillment, and marketing, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

As demand grew, Sarah faced a critical decision: stay small and manageable, or scale up and take on more risk. With guidance from her YEA mentors, she chose to scale.

She pitched to angel investors at YEA's Annual Summit, securing an additional $40,000 in funding. This allowed her to partner with a larger manufacturer, expand her product line, and hire two part-time employees—both fellow YEA members.

"YEA taught me that entrepreneurship isn't a solo journey," Sarah reflects. "Building a team and asking for help isn't weakness—it's smart business."

Today, EcoPack Solutions serves over 200 small businesses across five states. The company has prevented an estimated 50,000 pounds of plastic waste from entering landfills and oceans.

Sarah is now a freshman at Stanford University, studying Environmental Engineering and Business. She continues to run EcoPack Solutions remotely, with a small team managing day-to-day operations.

"YEA didn't just teach me how to start a business—it taught me how to think like an entrepreneur," Sarah says. "Every challenge is an opportunity. Every 'no' is just a step closer to 'yes.' That mindset has changed my life."

She's also giving back, serving as a mentor in YEA's program. "I remember how lost I felt at the beginning. If I can help even one student avoid those mistakes and achieve their dreams faster, it's worth it."

When asked what advice she'd give to students considering entrepreneurship, Sarah doesn't hesitate:

"Start now. Don't wait until you have the perfect idea or the perfect plan. Join YEA, find a mentor, and just start building. You'll learn more from doing than from any textbook.

And don't be afraid to fail. My first three prototype formulas were disasters. My first pitch was terrible. But each failure taught me something valuable. Embrace the process.

Most importantly, find your 'why.' For me, it's environmental impact. When things get hard—and they will—your 'why' is what keeps you going."