Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship held its Sixth Annual Entrepreneurial Summit on Nov. 11 with the theme “Social Entrepreneur.”

Twelve seventh and eighth grade student businesses from five schools throughout the Pittsburgh region participated in the event at Commonwealth Charter Academy in Homestead. The purpose of the event was to showcase innovative student-led and designed business ideas.

Beginning in kindergarten, PHCSE students learn how to become entrepreneurs — and by the time they graduate in eighth grade, they have gained more hands-on experience and exposure to entrepreneurship than most college graduates. PHCSE had this program in place long before the Pennsylvania Department of Education adopted its college and career-ready focus.

“It was exciting to watch talented students from across the region come together to explore ideas, learn from each other, and meet area entrepreneurs,” said PHCSE entrepreneurial education coach Debra Titus. “The students walked away with guidance and support from industry leaders and many young entrepreneurs will be mentored by these leaders throughout their entrepreneurial journey.”

The summit featured four partnering schools: Pittsburgh Westinghouse, Life Male Steam Academy, The Neighborhood Academy and Mary of Nazareth. Students enjoyed being able to connect with industry leaders and other youth entrepreneurs.

Industry leaders were impressed with the students’ ideas and the impact they were making and look forward to being an integral piece helping to guide them along in their entrepreneurial journey.

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