New INCubator lab fosters opportunity for York’s entrepreneurs

Whether you’re a returning student or an incoming freshman, chances are you’ve walked passed the head turning classroom in the C Building known as the INCubator Lab. Perhaps the flashiest change to York, the old Lincoln Lab area has been transformed into the fresh and modern classroom space. The lab features conference rooms, high tech display options, hardwood flooring, and a sleek glass entrance. 

This year, the INCubator Lab is utilized by different business classes, including York’s new Business INCubator class also known as the “Shark Tank” class.

“If you’ve seen Shark Tank that’s kind of what the new INCubator class is going to do,”  Assistant Principal of Activities Drew McGuire said. “[Students] are going to have to come up with a business plan to develop and create their product. Then the capstone part of it is, they’re going to present this product and may be given an award of money to get that product off the ground.”

Throughout the year, business professionals throughout the community will help mentor and guide these young entrepreneurs in the development of their product. The purpose of the new INCubator Lab is to create an environment where each group can thrive.

“They’re in this space because it has more of a business feel to it,” Business INCubator teacher Steve Haderlein said. “When they come into this classroom, they’re not really students anymore– they’re now entrepreneurs.”

In the class, students are working in groups to start up their business. The high tech features and innovative layout of the new space aid collaboration and encourage productivity. 

“We have a lot of things to use,” senior and Business INCubator student Maddie Castino said. “We’re able to connect to a TV to show our whole group and talk.”

At the end of the year, students will pitch their idea to a group of investors. If their product is good enough, they may just be funded to start up their entire business. Although, not all groups will be granted the money which prompts a bit of competition in the class.

“I’m ready to get that money,” senior and Business INCubator student Luigi Allegrini said. “My team, we’re winning. We’re taking it all the way.”

This new and fresh business class at York has a way of incorporating entrepreneurship, business, marketing, and even some friendly competition all into one class period. Not to mention, this innovative course comes with an innovative classroom to match. For business students– this class is a no brainer.

“Students should take this class because, if they have an interest in entrepreneurship or running a business in the future, this is a great place to start.” Haderlein said. “Here, they learn all the skills that they would need in the future in order to do that.”