APPLY FOR WAVEMAKERS AT THIS LINK -> Applications due by June 2, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2026
MainStreet Roanoke Rapids Launches Free Youth Entrepreneurship Program for Middle and High School Students
Main Street WaveMakers hands-on training offered at no cost to participants June 8–11, 2026
ROANOKE RAPIDS, N.C. —
Main Street Roanoke Rapids announces the launch of Main Street WaveMakers, a four-day entrepreneurship initiative offered at no cost to rising 7th-12th grade students interested in exploring business ownership, creative problem-solving, and participating in a youth marketplace. The program will be held June 8–11, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Roanoke Rapids City Hall, 1040 Roanoke Ave.
Designed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, WaveMakers introduces young people to real-world business concepts, from developing an idea and building a brand to presenting to peers and preparing for an actual marketplace event. Students who complete the program will have the opportunity to vend at the Youth Market during the Liberty on Main Independence Day Festival at the Kirkwood Adams Community Center. The program is offered at no cost to participants with support from Halifax Community College’s Small Business Center and Innovative Networking Group (ING).
“This program is about helping young people see themselves as leaders and problem-solvers. We want them to walk away believing that entrepreneurship is possible for them, right here in their own community.”
— Ashley Thomas, Main Street Development Director, MainStreet Roanoke Rapids
What Students Will Experience
Over four days, participants will engage in hands-on sessions covering the basics of entrepreneurship, including idea development, branding, planning, and presentation skills. The program is designed to be accessible and encouraging, offering a low-pressure environment where students can build confidence and explore their creative potential. Breakfast will be provided at no cost to participants.
“When mindset meets action, young entrepreneurs rise,” said Christina Williams of Innovative Networking Group, whose organization equips youth, families, and organizations through mindset development, leadership training, and real-world life skills that help prepare participants for long-term success.
Space is limited. Apply today.
Program Details
Dates: June 8–11, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Roanoke Rapids City Hall, 1040 Roanoke Ave., Roanoke Rapids, NC
Eligibility: Rising 7th–12th grade students; space is limited
Cost: No cost to participants
Application Deadline: June 2, 2026
Apply at: MainStreetRoanokeRapids.com/wavemakers
About MainStreet Roanoke Rapids
Roanoke Rapids is a North Carolina Main Street community, designated by the N.C. Department of Commerce Main Street & Rural Planning Center. Main Street Roanoke Rapids is charged with administering the program at the local level and building public-private partnerships to spur economic development that achieves measurable results such as investment, business growth, and job creation.
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