The 2026 Fall Press Start CoLab High School Program  is an innovation accelerator that teaches youth how to turn an idea into a business or project that supports the mental health of youth in their school or community. 

The program is supported by OTIP, whose funding helps students transform innovative ideas into meaningful mental health initiatives that create positive change in schools and communities.  

Over 7 weeks, (October 22, 2026 to December 10, 2026), student teams develop a real solution to a youth mental health challenge, work alongside peers and a member of the education community, and pitch for grant funding to bring their idea to life. Throughout the program, teams are supported by mentors, an inspirational keynote speaker, and equipped with practical tools for idea creation, collaboration, and bringing projects to life. 
  
We ask participants to develop new and creative solutions for youth in their community that address at least 1 of the 3 sub-focus areas of mental health: 

• De-Stigmatizing Mental Health 

• Building Confidence and Self-Image 

• Creating Safe Spaces for Connectedness 

Participants will receive helpful entrepreneurial tools and resources as well as support from mentors who have experience as mental health entrepreneurs. They will also hear an inspiring talk from this year’s keynote speaker, and have access to a total pool of $25,000+ in grants to help their ideas come to life. 

The 2026 Fall Press Start CoLab High School Program will only be offered in English.  

Applications open September 8, 2026. Click here for FAQs and to learn more. 

*Grant funding will be distributed across multiple successful ideas​.