Best School Clubs to Join for Future Business Owners
So, you’re an entrepreneur—or at least thinking like one. But how do you get better at it? How do you build the skills it takes to run a business? Around 70% of learning happens through hands-on experience, and one of the easiest ways to get that in high school is by joining a club. Here are five of the best school clubs to check out if you’re serious about becoming a future business owner.
Top School Clubs for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Here are a few school clubs that can help you build entrepreneurial skills and spark new ideas.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
FBLA is the largest career-focused student organization in the world. It gives high school students exclusive access to a network, resources, and support for exploring a career in business.
Through FBLA, you can take part in educational programs and competitive events in areas like accounting, business law, data analytics, and even event planning. They also offer role-play scenarios that let you participate in real-world situations to help you develop leadership and interpersonal skills you’ll use in the future.
DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America)
DECA gives students the chance to explore different areas of business through hands-on learning and leadership opportunities. One of their popular programs, Emerging Leaders, is designed to prep students for success in both college and their future careers by focusing on innovation and problem-solving.
They also run competitive events across several categories, including:
- Accounting
- Business finance
- Community awareness
- Franchise business
- Human resources
- Sports and entertainment marketing
Another cool option is DECA’s School-Based Enterprise (SBE) program. This program pushes you to learn about, manage, and make decisions at a business inside your school. This experience builds critical thinking skills and work ethic.
Local Entrepreneurship Club
Check out what your high school already offers—chances are, there’s an entrepreneurship club that isn’t part of a national network but still brings together students interested in starting businesses. These clubs usually organize activities like pitch competitions or group projects with other student entrepreneurs. It’s a great space to bounce around ideas, get feedback, and see what it takes to turn a concept into reality. In addition, some clubs may connect you with mentors or share resources on grants and loans to help you get started.
Leadership Club
Your school may offer organizations where you can take the lead on mentoring others or coordinating events. This club could be under a number of different names; think student government, peer mentoring, student council, or peer leadership. You’ll want something that helps you build teamwork, organizational skills, and public speaking experience. These are key qualities for future business owners who need to manage teams and communicate well with others.
Junior Achievement
Junior Achievement helps students get ready for careers and business. They offer a ton of programs for high schoolers that focus on topics like financial literacy, job readiness, and entrepreneurship. Some of the specific subject matter they cover include:
- Economics
- Entrepreneurial mindset
- Business ethics
- Technology in business
Junior Achievement also hosts events in different states, including activities like competitions, volunteer summits, and virtual career days that give you exposure to the real-world side of business.
Ready to Lead Before Graduation?
Joining one or more of these clubs is a step toward building your future. Whether you’re gaining leadership experience, launching your first business, or pitching at a competition, these experiences can shape your path in college and beyond.
If you’re a Florida high school student with business experience and college on your mind, you may be eligible for a scholarship from the Kantner Foundation. Learn more here.
