This summer, a group of young visionary high school sophomores and juniors gathered at Drexel University for a one-of-a-kind experience that merged creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The Rising Starters Summer Camp, hosted by the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship and the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, offered students a chance to build real-world solutions at the intersection of fashion and business.
Over the course of one action-packed week, campers were immersed in a blend of workshops, site visits, expert-led sessions, and collaborative venture development. With a focus on social entrepreneurship, fashion innovation, and digital commerce, the camp encouraged students to tackle some of today’s biggest societal challenges.
From day one, students were taught lessons on:
- Sustainable and ethical fashion business planning
- AI-powered marketing and influencer strategy
- Digital commerce and branding in fashion
- Market analysis and revenue modeling
- Entrepreneurial thinking and pitching
Participants met with entrepreneurs and industry leaders, visited local fashion retailers, and explored the future of commerce and sustainability. Each team then applied their new skills to create their own innovative venture in a final pitch presentation to a panel of professionals.
The Final Pitch
The closing day was the highlight of the week as each team took the stage to present their startup ideas, tackling challenges from food insecurity to mental health. Here’s a look at the innovative ideas:
Winner – Next Shift
Eugene K, Geona J, Noel S, and Angel H
Next Shift is a job platform built for young adults, offering faster, more responsive hiring solutions than traditional sites like Indeed. Users can build resumes, apply for jobs, and receive replies within 24 hours. The app operates on both free and subscription plans, also allowing employers to pay for premium job listings. Making this idea a game-changer for workforce readiness!
2nd place – Brain & Body Health
Azalea G, Nguyen L, Adeline R, and Myeire M
This wellness-focused app aims to tackle both mental and physical health. With features like guided workouts, mindfulness tutorials, and one-on-one coaching calls, it promotes holistic health. Their subscription model supports accessibility across demographics and age groups.
Open Path
Clementia K, Paris N, and Sanjida R
Open Path supports ESL students by offering translation tools, school supply discounts, and language education resources. Tailored for younger students, it bridges the gap often left by broader apps like Duolingo.
Roots and Relief
Jayden M, Chris H, and Donatella M
Combating food insecurity and waste, this app delivers affordable, farm-fresh food directly to consumers. With composting initiatives and SNAP/EBT integration, the venture combines sustainability with accessibility under a “pay what you can” model.
Eld O’Clock
Tyshaya H, Jonah S, Colin Z, and Emilyn S
Designed to reduce isolation among seniors, this social platform connects older adults through events, classes, and community groups. With a subscription model, the app offers an avenue for connection, learning, and purpose in later life.
Beyond the Pitch: Lessons That Last
The Rising Starters Summer Camp wasn’t just about launching ideas; it was about unlocking potential. Students walked away with a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and social impact, real-life experience, and the confidence to lead change in their communities.
We can’t wait to see what these young entrepreneurs build next!
