TIE YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
At TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE), we believe in the power of youth to shape the future. Our program immerses high school students in the exciting world of entrepreneurship, providing them with the tools and skills they need to become tomorrow's leaders.
Why Choose TYE?
Innovative Curriculum: Learn from top entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and educators through a curriculum that combines rigorous academic principles with real-world application.
Leadership and Collaboration: Develop key entrepreneurial and teamwork skills, culminating in a high-energy pitch competition that lets students showcase their innovative ideas.
Global Network: Be part of a global network with TYE programs in 27 chapters worldwide, connecting students with a community of like-minded peers and mentors.
Build Your Future: Distinguish yourself in college applications and/or essays, resumes, or even your LinkedIn with real-world entrepreneurial experience and leadership skills gained from participating in TYE.
Program Overview
Interactive Learning: Our project-based curriculum emphasizes design thinking and customer validation, providing students with hands-on experience in building a startup.
Annual Cycle: Running from October to May, the program concludes with a State Competition, where the winning team advances to the prestigious Global TYE Competition. Winners have the opportunity to earn cash prizes at both the State and Global Competition events.
Local Engagement: This year’s program features a Community Program open to all high school students, along with Satellite Programs at Lincoln High School, McDaniel High School, Metropolitan Learning Center, and Rosemary Anderson High School’s North Campus.
“TYE gave me valuable experience that taught me how to take an idea for a product and turn it into a reality. The stuff I learned will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
Applications Now Open: TYE Community Program 2026-2027
Applications for the 2026-2027 TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Program is now officially open. We invite motivated high school students with curiosity, creativity, and ambition to apply for this transformative experience.
Only 40 applicants will be accepted this year, so students are encouraged to apply early to secure their place in the cohort. Applications will be accepted through July 10, 2026.
TYE Community Program Details:
Schedule: Sundays, October 2026-May 2027
Format: Hybrid (combination of in-person and virtual sessions)
Program Tuition: TYE Community Program tuition typically falls within a range of approximately $425 – $750, depending on final cohort size and program costs for the year.
Our goal is to keep the program accessible while maintaining the high-quality mentorship, curriculum, and events that define the TYE experience. Students interested in participating are encouraged to apply early, as admission is limited and spots fill quickly.
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TYE In-Class Program (Operating During the 2025–2026 School Year)
Our In-Class Program is fully active throughout the school year.TYE Community Program
The Community Program, held on Sunday afternoons and open to students across the Portland Metro area, is paused for the 2025–2026 program year.
We look forward to bringing the Community Program back in 2026–2027, stronger and better than ever. -
Our TYE Student Mentors and Leadership team give insights and updates on ongoing projects and upcoming events. Check back for updates. Read more…
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We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated mentors who supported our students throughout the TYE program year. Their expertise, time, and encouragement helped bring student ideas to life and made an extraordinary impact on each team’s journey.
Special thanks to the following mentors who guided students in areas such as business development, financial modeling, product design, storytelling, and pitching.
2024-2025 Mentors:
Amir Yazdani, Britta Cabanos, David Underhill, Donn Dimond, Gabe Sutherland, George Nelson, Jake Kuramoto, Lade Lamina, Michael Sheridan, Mikey Tremblay, Navgeet King Zed, Pallavi Pande, Robin Jones, Sonali Sampat, Tanith Yates, Travis Cannon, and Yoanne Clovis
Interested in volunteering or mentoring a TYE team to compete amongst their peers? Please fill-out this brief form and our program manager will get in-touch with you. Click here
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Summer 2026 info to come. To learn more about the TYE Summer Camp, click here.
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Since 2021, the Jack O’Hollaren family partnered with TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) in offering the Jack O’Hollaren Young Entrepreneur Award. Read more...
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Click here to see our 2025-2026 TYE Student Co-Director team.
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A Big Thank You to Our TYE Donors
We are deeply grateful to the generous individuals who make the TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) program possible. Your support helps us empower the next generation of innovators, leaders, and changemakers.
2024 TYE Donors: Uygar Avci, Lori Ann Bednarz, Catherine Blanksby, Brent Bullock, Lisa Daly, Scott Diaz, Donn Dimond, Elizabeth Hetrick, Sandra Inglis, Rachel Jagoda-Brunette, Robin Jones, Denise Landry, Colleen Love, Theresa O'Hollaren, Patricia O'Hollaren, Karen O'Hollaren, Kimberly O'Hollaren, Joan O'Hollaren, Kyle O'Hollaren, Sean O'Hollaren, Ryan O'Hollaren, Michael Phillips, Nitin Rai, Anika Rai, Ketan Sampat, and Elizabeth Warren
2025 TYE Donors: Bettina Davis, Champika Edirisinghe, John & Bethany O'Hollaren, and Gift Nonprofit Strategies
Please support future young entrepreneurs!
Click here to donate to TYE
WINNERS OF TYE'S 2025-2026 STATE COMPETITION
WINNERS OF TYE'S 2024-2025 STATE COMPETITION
2026 jack o’hollaren award recipient
Lakshya Bakshi, a standout alumnus of TYE (Class of 2015), has built an impressive path as both an entrepreneur and technologist. From an early foundation in innovation and problem-solving. Lakshya has continued to push boundaries in the tech and startup space.
A graduate of Jesuit High School, Lakshya participated in the TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Community Program during his high school years, where he began developing his entrepreneurial mindset. He went on to attend Duke University, graduating in 2020 on the Dean's List with a double major in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science, along with a minor in Chemistry.
In 2023, Lakshya cofounded ScholarAI with two peers from Duke's Melissa & Doug fellowship, creating an early AI EdTech app for researchers and students. In 2024, ScholarAI received the YouTube Silver Creator Award, highlighting its growing brand and business. In late 2025, ScholarAI exited to JenniAI in a seven-figure deal.
Today, Lakshya works with large organizations on applied AI acceleration and continues to grow the same YouTube channel with his former cofounders. After moving to San Francisco, he is in the early stages of founding his next start up.
Lakshy's innovation, leadership and achievements make him an inspiring example for young entrepreneurs.
2026 Emerging youth entrepreneur award recipient
Pippa Mirsky, a standout student in the TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) program, has quickly distinguished herself as an emerging leader and innovator. From her early involvement in entrepreneurship to her continued growth through hands-on experience. Pippa exemplifies the drive and creativity that define the next generation of changemakers.
Currently a senior at Lincoln High School, Pippa first participated in the 2025 TYE Community Program, where her team earned 3rd place in the Oregon State Competition. She has continued her journey through Lincoln's TYE In-Class program, further developing her entrepreneurial skills and deepening her passion for innovation.
Beyond the classroom, she is the co-founder and manager of her school's Barista Club, where she leads a student-run coffee business serving both peers and staff, gaining valuable, real-world business experience.
Within TYE, Pippa has emerged as a strong team leader, guiding her group through key milestone including their prototype presentation. She is known for fostering a collaborative, inclusive team environment while maintaining a clear focus on user-centered design and execution.
Pippa is also a USPTO patent-pending innovator for her product, "The Bloom Case," and has shared her insights as a speaker at the Oregon Sustainable Business Startups networking event. A four-year varsity equestrian athlete, she brings discipline and dedication to all her pursuits, while her global perspective is enriched through volunteering and international ambassadorships.
Looking ahead, Pippa plans to attend the University of Chicago to study economic and entrepreneurship. Her leadership, initiative, and commitment to building meaningful solutions make her a truly deserving recipient of this year's Emerging Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Come celebrate both Lakshy and Pippa on Sunday, May 17th!
TYE Global COMPETITION 2024-2025:
Team Hive represents oregon in d.c.
We are proud to share the incredible journey of Team Hive from Lincoln High School, who represented Oregon at the 17th annual TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Global Competition, held on June 19–20, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
What started as a classroom project to address chronic tinnitus grew into an innovative product concept: a smart white noise device that activates only when needed, delivering soothing soundscapes to provide relief and improve the quality of life for those affected by tinnitus.
Team Hive’s path to Globals was anything but typical. After initially placing just outside the qualifying teams at the Oregon State Competition, they earned a surprise invitation to compete when other teams stepped back. With only one week to prepare, they came together, refined their pitch, and ultimately took first place at State.
Over the summer, the team worked closely with dedicated mentors to improve their pitch and business model, culminating in their presentation at Globals. Although they did not place at the international level, the experience was transformative—building confidence, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of what it takes to bring an idea to life.
“TYE taught me the importance of prototyping, customer validation and failure in entrepreneurship. I believe the mentorship that TYE provides represents an incredible learning opportunity and set of connections for students.”
— Jonathan Wilkinson, Team Hive
“Competing at TYE Globals was a challenging and rewarding experience… I really enjoyed the opportunity to build out our financial models, refine our projections, and deepen my financial acumen.”
— Akim Arkhangelski, Team Hive
Congratulations once again to Team Hive for their creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their journey is a powerful reminder of the transformational impact of the TYE program.
2024-2025 TYE PRogram finalists
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Biodegradable phone case embedded with live seeds
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Resource hub for neurodivergent individuals
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Temperature-controlled cooling water bottle
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Connecting extra food from restaurants with people who need it
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Sustainable, handmade toys made from unused clothing
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Innovative & sustainable hospital gown
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Automated sound therapy for treating tinnitus
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Cash-less platform for trading apparel and goods
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Sustainable, art-inspired trash cans
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Educational board game focused on marine life
2023-2024 TYE PRogram finalists
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Blind Corner Camera used while driving.
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Drive Lock is an anti-theft device for cars and trucks that places car owners and security at the forefront. The small device is plugged directly into the vehicle’s fuse box and acts as an intermediary between the battery and the engine, effectively preventing electricity from reaching the engine.
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A platform for teens to find jobs, internships, and volunteering opportunities.
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A neck brace for athletes to prevent injuries.
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Potigami is a company focused on the creation of sustainable plant pots made with 100% recycled newspaper. These pots are not only biodegradable (made for planting directly into the ground) but customizable, as they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and naturally-dyed colors to match every customer’s needs.
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A solar Paneled Computer Charging Case.
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Quick Access is the ultimate "Classpass" of digital subscription services. Offering users bite-sized on demand access to subscriptions services like Netflix and CrunchBase at a fraction of a cost that a long term plan would offer.
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An app where people can buy and sell cars.
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Safi is an app that detects harmful chemicals in your personal care products and provides clean alternatives.
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Ankle supporting socks for sports.
TYE PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Join the TYE Program and immerse yourself in the world of entrepreneurship.
Complete all sessions to develop essential skills and earn a coveted summer internship with some of Oregon’s most dynamic startups.
This is your chance to learn from industry leaders and bring your ideas to life. Discover more about the program and take the first step toward your future success.
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Transform your ideas into reality with hands-on rapid prototyping! Collaborate with your team to create working models of your inventions. Experience the thrill of seeing your concepts come alive while gaining valuable skills in a fun and engaging environment.
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Collaborate with a team of 2-4 members to design groundbreaking technology solutions. Work on real-world, market-ready tech ideas and prepare to compete on a state and potentially global platform.
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Master the essentials of creating a business model by aligning customer segments with value propositions.
Gain hands-on experience in developing cost and revenue models, planning go-to-market strategies, and understanding market sizing through customer validation.
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This is an opportunity to gain personalized guidance from experienced mentors and serial entrepreneurs. Network with global entrepreneurs and investors through TiE’s online directory.
Get your team and/or business idea featured in a blog on the TiE Oregon e-newsletter and on social media.
Enjoy discounted attendance at TiE events and the chance to join elite programs like TiECon Silicon Valley and the TiE University Global Pitch Competition.
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Take the stage and pitch your ideas to win! Compete against fellow innovators, present your business model to expert judges, and get insightful feedback.
This exciting challenge helps you refine your pitch skills and stand out in the entrepreneurial world.
LEAD IN CLASS INSTRUCTOR
Trish Langman is an impact-driven sustainability and circular economy strategist with over 15 years of experience leading systems change in the fashion and textile industries. She has built cross-sector partnerships that bring together brands, governments, and suppliers to advance scalable solutions focused on waste reduction, climate goals, and extended producer responsibility.
In addition to her industry work, Trish is an accomplished educator and program designer known for creating engaging, equity-focused curriculum and culturally responsive, bilingual training programs. She has led large-scale stakeholder initiatives, advised policy leaders at the United Nations, and developed multilingual outreach strategies that expand access and impact.
A self-made entrepreneur and leader in ed-tech, Trish brings a design thinking approach to the classroom and is passionate about connecting with students on a personal level—empowering them to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and build ventures with purpose.
SUPPORT COMES FROM…
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AUTZEN FOUNDATION
The Autzen Foundation primarily supports organizations focusing on social services, arts and culture, education, environmental initiatives, and youth-centered missions. Read more…
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HENRY HILLMAN FOUNDATION
The Henry Hillman Foundation is solving big problems through civic leadership, collaboration, and innovation. Read more…
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THE LEMELSON FOUNDATION
The Lemelson Foundation believes impact inventors will solve our biggest challenges and improve lives in communities in the U.S. and around the world. Read more..
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OREGON YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
The Youth Development Council was created to support Oregon’s education system by developing state policy and administering funding to community and school-based youth development programs, services, and initiatives for youth ages 6-24 in a manner that supports educational success, and career and workforce development with a focus on Positive Youth Development, and is integrated, measurable and accountable. Read more…
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RANDALL CHARITABLE TRUST
The Robert D. and Marcia H. Randall Charitable Trust was founded to improve and enrich the lives of people in the Pacific Northwest by supporting organizations that provide opportunity to the underprivileged. Read more…
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THE RESER FAMILY FOUNDATION
The Reser Family Foundation's support allows us to reach more students and provide the resources necessary to help them thrive in school, careers and life. Ream more…
Testimonials
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"TYE helped me realize how achievable my goals can be while still in high school"
- Lio A.
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"TYE is a great opportunity to put your ideas into action."
- Akhil K.
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"I took the TYE program in 2022 when I was a freshman. I now have two businesses, a nail business and a crochet business."
- Brenda H.
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"I'm proud to say that I can use customer validation and feedback to improve upon a product."
- Srishti B.
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"My favorite part of the program was trying to come up with new ideas after our previous ones failed."
- Anika J.
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"TYE is immensely helpful! It equips high schoolers with practical business experience and other useful skills for future success!"
- Liu W.
— TYE helped me realize how achievable my goals can be while still in high school. —
—Lio A., TYE Alum