PHASE 1
THE TOP 100
The top 20 student entrepreneurs from each campus are selected to attend an exclusive event, where they connect with one another in a focused, high-calibre setting. Each session also features a successful alumni founder who shares their journey and insights with the group.
PHASE 2
A NETWORK FOR LIFE
These top 20 students from each university form part of the YEC Top 100 Student Entrepreneurs (SE), a national network of elite student entrepreneurs.
They gain access to a private space on the YEC digital platform, where they connect and collaborate, share resources, and build relationships that extend far beyond graduation — creating a network for life and supporting long-term entrepreneurial success.
PHASE 3
THE POWER X
From the YEC Top 100, the top 10 student entrepreneurs nationwide are selected for the final phase and brought together to form a high-performance founding team.
The team is intentionally structured with complementary skill sets across finance, law, engineering, marketing, operations and more.
With support from YEC and its partners, they receive mentorship from experienced founders, strategic guidance, operational support, and access to funding — all aimed at one objective: the top 10 student entrepreneurs in SA building a real business together.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply?
To apply for the Campus Tour, you must first be a member of the YEC community. Applications for the Campus Tour will be shared directly with members inside the YEC platform once they are released.
Who can apply?
To apply for the Campus Tour, you must first be a member of the YEC community. Applications for the Campus Tour will be shared directly with members inside the YEC platform once they are released.
Is there a fee to participate?
No
How are students selected?
At each campus, the top 20 students are chosen based on entrepreneurial activity, initiative, and potential. From there, the top students form the YEC Top 100, and the top 10 nationwide are selected for the final phase.
What happens after the Campus Tour?
Campus Tour attendees will be invited to join the YEC Top 100 Student Entrepreneurs (SE), a private national network on the YEC platform. The top 10 from the Top 100 are then selected to form a high-performance founding team to build a business with mentorship, guidance, and funding support.
Can anyone attend the Campus Tour events?
No, you must be selected as part of the top 20 on your campus.