The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) has extended the application period for the Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship (GSE) to May 9, 2025. Students currently in Grades 9-12 can apply for this residential, summer program hosted by Marshall University (July 11-20, 2025). GSE is an opportunity for students to gain practical skills, build valuable networks with entrepreneurs and experience the excitement of pitching ideas to investors.

Established in 2016, the GSE empowers students to innovate, lead and create. They can discover and develop business ideas that can propel them to the forefront of any chosen industry. Students interested in career technical education pathways are also encouraged to participate so they can further build skills and experience opportunities for workforce development.

“The Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship offers our students an opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain the experience to confidently take steps toward successful careers,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “This program builds a foundation of transferrable skills that students can use across disciplines regardless of the pathway they choose after high school.”

The Governor’s Schools program began in 1984 with the creation of the Governor’s Honors Academy to provide students the chance to explore cutting-edge theories in the arts and sciences and develop a greater understanding of how art, culture and knowledge change with time. Since then, the Governor’s Schools program has expanded to include math, science, technology, business, tourism and more. In addition to refining their talents and abilities, these young scholars develop lifelong friendships and are instructed and mentored by practicing professionals in their areas of interest.

Additional information, including the GSE application, is available on the GSE page of the WVDE website.