Where the next generation of community builders are fostered.

You don’t need a business idea to apply!

About Startup Moxie

Startup Moxie, a RISE program for high school students in the Elkhart County area, empowers students to develop entrepreneurial skills, discover personal passions, and build meaningful community connections. Meeting Monday through Friday, students gain hands-on experience through immersive behind-the-scenes tours and develop a real entrepreneurial mindset by launching a class business or creating their own personal venture. This year-long program doubles as a research and development lab for entrepreneurial best practices, fostering student growth into future leaders in both business and community.

High school students gather to:

Understand their personal strengths and passions, while earning up to 6 HS credits and 18 dual college credits
Become curious, creative, courageous, and confident learners
Build and strengthen an entrepreneurial mindset
Practice and apply startup strategies to their own ideas, taking them from idea to revenue
Build a toolkit equipped with the resources necessary to solve real-world problems

The Mission of Startup Moxie

The mission of Startup Moxie is to transform the lives of high school students through entrepreneurial thought and immersion.

UNIQUE

Startup Moxie breaks barriers as the only program of its kind in our area that gives students the opportunity to experience real entrepreneurship firsthand.

CONNECTION

Students are provided with intentional connections to local business leaders and behind-the-scenes access to local spaces in the community every week.

CULTURE

Learning should be both challenging and enjoyable. Startup Moxie is designed to push students to think critically and creatively, all while having a great time.

SELF-DIRECTED

Success in this program relies on student’s taking charge of their own learning. Set goals, seek out resources, and don’t be afraid to explore new ideas.

AWARE

At Startup Moxie students have the opportunity to learn more about what is going on in our region and how they can get involved and be a part of the change in our community. Our goal is for students to see firsthand how amazing our community is, in turn encouraging them to remain here or return after furthering their education.

Events

SMEC Seat Sponsor 2025

Class Coaches

Startup Moxie students work with business leaders from the region, who we call Class Coaches. These community members provide feedback and support as the students refine their business ideas. Mentor-type relationships foster new ways of thinking, support students’ activities, and are rewarding for both students and Class Coaches.

Investors

Without the support of investors in the South Bend Elkhart region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, we would not be able to provide this non-profit program to young entrepreneurs in Elkhart County. Won’t you consider becoming an investor in Startup Moxie program?