Learn the Business of Tech and Entrepreneurship

Join a community of innovators and explore technology, business and entrepreneurship in New York City this summer.

WIRED Summer Academy is an immersive two-week experience for students who want to understand how technology companies are built and what it really takes to turn an idea into a viable startup.

 

Students will meet the people shaping the tech world today and visit New York City startups and innovation hubs where ambitious minds come together to share ideas. They’ll gain firsthand insight into how founders, product teams, and entrepreneurs bring new ideas to life across industries such as media, healthcare, sustainability, fashion, finance, and consumer tech.

Throughout the course, students will work in teams or independently to conceptualize, refine, and develop their own startup concept — whether that’s a wellness app, an AI-powered study tool, a climate solution, a social platform, or a digital marketplace. They’ll learn how to identify real-world problems, research users, validate ideas, and design technology-enabled solutions.

Students will also explore core business fundamentals such as product development, branding and market research, building both creative confidence and practical entrepreneurial skills.

By the end of the program, students will go from idea to business plan, building and pitching their startup concept to a panel of industry experts. They will leave with a tangible project, a deeper understanding of the startup world, exposure to New York City’s tech scene, an expanded professional network, and a standout experience that strengthens college applications and future career exploration.

Topics and Experiences

Topics Include

  • Startup Foundations
  • Idea Generation & Design Thinking
  • Product Development & Prototyping
  • Market Research & Customer Discovery
  • The Fundamentals of AI & Emerging Technologies
  • Branding & Storytelling
  • Presentation Skills & How to Pitch a Product
  • Leadership, Collaboration & Project Management

Site Visits & Experiences:

  • WIRED HQ
  • Techstars
  • Cornell Tech
  • Newlab
  • IMB Watson Experience Center
  • Google Headquarters

* site visits subject to change

Why learn with WIRED?

WIRED has spent decades telling the stories behind the technologies that reshape society, from early internet pioneers to today’s AI leaders. That perspective gives students access to something rare that will allow them to:

  • Spot emerging trends before they’re mainstream
  • Ask smart questions about new technologies
  • Understand why some innovations succeed while others disappear
  • Think critically about ethics, responsibility, and long-term consequences
  • See the human, business, and cultural side of tech – not just the technical side

This WIRED-informed approach trains students to think like industry insiders, not just consumers of technology.

Next steps

Summer 2026 Applications are now open!

Apply

WIRED Summer Academy is open to high school students (grades 10-12 and Graduating Seniors based on the grade the student is entering in the Fall 2026 school year). Students must be 15 years old by the first day of the program.

Speak to Admissions

Contact our Admissions Office with any questions about the application process, scholarship availability and flexible payment options. We’re here to help!

Read our FAQs

To find out more about the program, including application timelines, scholarships, and travel information, read our FAQs.

Contact Us

Questions?

Please contact us with any questions using the form or by phone / email.

precollege@wirededucation.com
US: +1 347 973 8876

 

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