Silicon Valley Future Entrepreneur Tour is a summer program designed for Mandarin speaking students to explore Silicon Valley’s tech ecosystem. Participants visit top tech hubs, gaining hands on experience in entrepreneurship, AI, and business strategy. With expert mentorship and workshops, they refine public speaking skills, culminating in a tech pitch recorded at a TV station, preparing them to lead in innovation.
Date: July 6 to 15, 2025
Location: Silicon Valley
Age: 10 to 15 years old
Accompanied by an Adult
Silicon Valley Future Entrepreneur Tour
Participants, guided by industry experts, explore startups, big tech companies, and makerspace, gaining hands-on skills and insights into innovation and entrepreneurship. The program also includes cultural excursions, educational institution visits, and unique activities like staying overnight at the USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier.
Students develop essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership while engaging in interactive learning experiences, from building projects at a makerspace to panning for gold in California’s Gold Country. Families enjoy an inspiring journey filled with shopping, dining, and cultural highlights, including visits to Stanford University and Yosemite National Park. The program concludes with lasting memories and invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial spirit of Silicon Valley, preparing young innovators to shape the future.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Silicon Valley
Upon arriving at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), families are warmly welcomed by the Sparknify team. After settling into their accommodations, participants attend a program briefing outlining the planned activities and goals. The day concludes with a welcome reception, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow participants and set the tone for an inspiring and transformative journey. Then relax and recharge after your long flight, getting ready for the exciting journey ahead.
• Warm Welcome: Families arrive at SFO and are greeted by the Sparknify team before settling in.
• Orientation & Reception: Attend a program briefing and connect with participants at a welcome event.
Lunch: Self-Planned | Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Marriott or 4-Star Equivalent Hotel
Day 2: Exploring San Francisco’s Innovation Hub
The first official day of the Sparknify’s Human vs. AI Silicon Valley Future Entrepreneur Tour immerses families in San Francisco, a city renowned for its urban innovation and unique startup culture.
The day kicks off with visits to San Francisco’s most famous landmarks, starting with the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge. Families will take in breathtaking views of the bay and learn about the bridge’s architectural significance. Next, the journey continues to Fisherman’s Wharf, where they can explore the historic waterfront, see the famous sea lions at Pier 39, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic destination. Then they’ll stop by Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street in the world,” and other notable sights that highlight San Francisco’s unique charm.
As part of the visit, families will board Waymo autonomous taxis, experiencing first-hand how AI-powered self-driving technologyis shaping the future of urban transportation.
After an exciting morning of sightseeing and AI-driven transportation, the adventure continues at the Exploratorium, a world-famous museum at the intersection of science, art, and human perception. Students will take part in an educational program tailored to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation. Through hands-on interactive exhibits, they’ll explore concepts in physics, biology, and AI, gaining insights into how technology and human creativity intersect.
• Destination: San Francisco, a hub of innovation and startup culture.
• Sightseeing: Explore San Francisco’s Iconic Landmarks from Golden Bridge to Lombard Street.
• Waymo Rides: Travel through San Francisco in autonomous taxis.
• Exploratorium: Visit a museum blending science, art, and perception.
• Interactive Learning: Engage in exhibits to spark curiosity and explore technology.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: Included
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 3: Berkeley Inspiring Innovation Through Rebellion
Families will visit Berkeley, a city renowned for its rebellious spirit that has fueled innovation and transformative ideas. As the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement, Berkeley’s culture of challenging norms and embracing diverse perspectives deeply influences its role as a hub for creativity.
At the University of California, Berkeley, students engage in hands-on programs at the Lawrence Hall of Science and enjoy panoramic views from Sather Tower, immersing themselves in an environment that fosters questioning and experimentation. Visits to landmarks like Doe Memorial Library and Telegraph Avenue highlight Berkeley’s dynamic counterculture and its history of innovation, inspiring students to think critically and creatively.
In the afternoon, families will visit the USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier, a historic vessel with a storied past. Guided by a historian, they will explore its critical role in military operations during pivotal moments in history. Through this immersive experience, students gain a deeper understanding of the carrier’s significance, the complexities of wartime strategy, and its broader impact on regional and global history. To deepen the experience, families will have the unique opportunity to stay overnight onboard the aircraft carrier, living as sailors once did. This overnight adventure includes exploring crew quarters, learning about daily life at sea, and participating in activities that offer a firsthand glimpse into the challenges and routines of naval service.
• Berkeley’s Spirit: Explore Berkeley’s rebellious culture and its influence on innovation and creativity.
• UC Berkeley Visit: Participate in hands-on activities and visit landmarks like Sather Tower and Telegraph Avenue.
• Cultural Insights: Discover Berkeley’s counterculture and history of transformative ideas.
• USS Hornet Tour: Learn the carrier’s military role, including missions over Taiwan, guided by a historian.
• Overnight Stay: Experience life as a sailor onboard the USS Hornet through interactive activities.
Breakfast: Hotel | Lunch, and Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Bunk Bed Onboard USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier
Day 4: Inspiration from Tech Giants
Families embark on an inspiring journey through Silicon Valley, visiting the headquarters of some of the world’s most influential tech companies, including Apple, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and other renowned innovators. These visits provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the environments where groundbreaking ideas are brought to life. From state-of-the-art visitor centers showcasing the latest advancements to office spaces designed for collaboration and labs where cutting-edge technologies are developed, participants gain an insider’s perspective on how these tech giants operate and innovate at a global scale.
This immersive experience not only highlights the technological achievements of these companies but also serves as a catalyst for students to broaden their horizons. Seeing firsthand how creativity, teamwork, and bold thinking shape transformative products and services inspires students to dream big and envision their own potential impact on the world. The tour instills an appreciation for the dynamic culture of Silicon Valley and motivates students to embrace challenges and pursue innovation with confidence and determination.
As the space race heats up, families will embark on an exciting visit to the NASA Ames Exploration Center in Sunnyvale, a hub of cutting-edge aerospace research and space exploration. This interactive center offers a fascinating glimpse into NASA’s pioneering work, from Mars missions and planetary exploration to aeronautics innovations and AI-driven space technology. Students will have the opportunity to see real space artifacts, including a lunar rock sample from the Apollo missions, and learn about the latest advancements in robotics, space telescopes, and human spaceflight research. Through hands-on exhibits and engaging presentations, they will gain a deeper understanding of NASA’s role in pushing the boundaries of science and technology, inspiring the next generation of innovators and explorers.
• Visit Top Tech Companies: Explore Apple, Google, and Microsoft to witness innovation firsthand.
• Discover Creativity and Technology: Learn how collaboration and bold ideas drive cutting-edge advancements.
• Inspire Future Innovators: Embrace Silicon Valley’s culture and gain confidence to tackle challenges.
Breakfast: Mass Hall Inside Aircraft Carrier | Lunch, and Dinner: Included
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 5: Makerspace Exploration
While parents enjoy exploring local attractions, students will embark on an exciting experience at one of Silicon Valley’s largest and most advanced makerspaces. Equipped with cutting-edge tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, design software, and CNC hardware, this space provides the perfect environment for hands-on learning and creativity.
Students will be organized into teams, working collaboratively on unique projects that challenge their creativity and problem-solving abilities. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, they will transform their ideas from concepts into fully realized creations. This team-based approach not only inspires innovation but also nurtures critical skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership, as each student contributes their strengths toward a shared vision.
This immersive session allows students to explore the powerful combination of technology and creativity, equipping them with practical, real-world skills. By the end of the day, each team will have a completed project to present, showcasing their ingenuity and growth as young innovators ready to tackle future challenges.
In the afternoon, participants will visit Stanford University, a world-renowned institution celebrated not only for its academic excellence but also for its profound impact on technological innovation, entrepreneurship, and global society. Families will embark on a guided campus tour, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Stanford Arch, Hoover Tower, and Memorial Church, while immersing themselves in the university’s inspiring atmosphere. Along the way, they will learn about Stanford’s rich history, its role in shaping Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem, and the groundbreaking research conducted by its students and faculty that continues to drive advancements across various industries.
The campus visit is designed to ignite young entrepreneurs’ passion for learning and innovation, inspiring them to apply knowledge and technology to their future endeavors. Additionally, they offer a valuable opportunity for students and the family to explore the possibility of attending a prestigious American university in the future, broadening their academic aspirations and career ambitions while gaining firsthand insight into the pathways that lead to excellence in education and innovation.
After a productive day in the Maker Space, families will head to the vibrant Santana Row and Westfield Valley Fair, two of Silicon Valley’s premier destinations for shopping, dining, and exploration. Santana Row offers a unique outdoor experience, blending upscale shops, boutiques, and chic restaurants with a lively atmosphere. Nearby, Westfield Valley Fair boasts an expansive indoor shopping experience featuring luxury brands, trendy retailers, and a diverse food scene, where families can self-plan to dine at Eataly, a renowned Italian marketplace featuring fresh pasta, gourmet pizzas, and artisanal desserts, or choose from a variety of other interesting restaurants offering global cuisines, ensuring a delightful end to the day.
• Makerspace Experience: Students collaborate in a high-tech makerspace, turning ideas into real creations.
• Stanford Tour: Explore Stanford’s campus and learn about its academic legacy.
• Shopping: Families visit Santana Row for shopping and dining.
• Dining Options: Enjoy global cuisine at Westfield Valley Fair, including Eataly’s Italian specialties.
Breakfast: Danny's (Jensen Huang's first job place) | Lunch: Included | Dinner: Self-Planned
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 6: Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Day
Kick off the day with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of a local TV station, where young entrepreneurs and their families will see how American television programs are produced. Explore state-of-the-art studios, meet the creative professionals who bring broadcasts to life, and learn about the technology and teamwork behind live and recorded productions.
Leveraging the skills learned throughout the program, participants will use AI tools to generate a video pitch for their product idea, inspired by the Human vs. AI theme. This hands-on session will highlight how AI can enhance storytelling, marketing, and business communication. Then step into the spotlight! In the afternoon, young entrepreneurs will bring their product ideas to life on camera. Inside a professional TV studio, they will deliver their startup pitch, refining public speaking and video presentation skills. With expert guidance, they’ll experience what it’s like to present a business idea in a high-tech production environment.
This immersive day will boost confidence, creativity, and communication skills—essential tools for future innovators!
• TV Station Tour – Go behind the scenes at a local TV studio, meet industry pros, and see how shows are made.
• AI-Powered Pitch – Use AI to create a video pitch for a startup idea based on the Human vs. AI concept.
• On-Camera Pitch – Present the pitch on camera in a professional TV studio, honing public speaking skills.
Breakfast: Hotel | Lunch and Dinner: Included
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 7: Exploring the Wonders of Yosemite
Families embark on an educational journey to Yosemite National Park, a gem among America’s natural wonders. Led by expert guides, the tour offers a deep dive into Yosemite’s breathtaking geological features, including the iconic granite cliffs of El Capitan and the towering spires of Half Dome. As participants explore these dramatic landscapes, they will learn about the park’s formation, glacial history, and the unique geological processes that have shaped its stunning scenery over millions of years.
In addition to its majestic rock formations, the tour highlights Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows and ancient sequoia groves to cascading waterfalls and rich forest habitats. Guides will share insights into the park’s conservation efforts, discussing the ongoing challenges of protecting its delicate flora and fauna. Families will gain a greater appreciation for the natural history and environmental significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, leaving with a deeper understanding of the delicate balance that sustains Yosemite’s beauty for future generations.
• Geological Wonders: Explore Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan and Half Dome while learning about its glacial history.
• Diverse Ecosystems: Discover alpine meadows, sequoia groves, waterfalls, and forest habitats.
• Conservation Insights: Learn about efforts to protect Yosemite’s delicate flora and fauna.
Breakfast: Hotel | Lunch and Dinner: Included
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Day 8: California’s Gold Country
We will take a day trip leading the families to California’s historic Gold Country, a region rich with stories of fortune seekers and pioneers who shaped the American West during the 1849 Gold Rush. The tour begins with a visit to well-preserved mining sites, where participants can step back in time and walk in the footsteps of the early miners. Families will explore the rustic remnants of the old mining camps, see the original equipment used in gold extraction, and learn about the challenging lives of those who traveled from all over the world in search of prosperity. Expert guides will share tales of the hardships, dreams, and dramatic events that unfolded in this era of rapid expansion, providing an immersive glimpse into one of the most transformative periods in California’s history.
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A highlight of the experience is the interactive gold panning demonstration, where families get hands-on with the techniques used by miners to sift for gold. Children and adults alike can try their luck at finding small flecks of gold, just as the early prospectors did over a century ago. This engaging activity offers a tangible connection to the past and gives participants a sense of the excitement and challenges faced by those who rushed to this region in hopes of striking it rich. Beyond the thrill of panning for gold, the visit provides a deeper understanding of the significant impact the Gold Rush had on California’s development, from the boom of population growth and the establishment of new towns to the broader economic shifts that helped shape the future of the United States.
In the evening, families can explore San Francisco Premium Outlets, the largest outlet mall in California. With over 180 stores featuring top brands and unbeatable discounts. It’s the perfect destination for a memorable shopping spree before wrapping up your trip, ensuring you leave with fantastic deals and cherished items.
• Historic Gold Country: Explore preserved mining sites and learn about the lives of 1849 Gold Rush pioneers.
• Gold Panning: Try hands-on gold panning, experiencing the techniques of early prospectors.
• Cultural Insights: Understand the Gold Rush’s impact on California’s growth and economic transformation.
• San Francisco Premium Outlets: Enjoy shopping at over 180 stores offering top brands and discounts.
Breakfast and Lunch: Included | Dinner: Self-Planned
Accommodation: Residence Inn Livermore or 3-Star Equivalent Hotel
Day 9: Farewell Silicon Valley
After having breakfast prepared by the hotel, families prepare for their departure back to Taiwan. Reflecting on days filled with innovation, discovery, and new friendships, students and their families carry home invaluable experiences and insights gained from Silicon Valley, and beyond. This transformational journey has provided unique perspectives on entrepreneurship, equipping young innovators with inspiration and knowledge to fuel their future endeavors. Families say their farewells, taking with them memories and lessons that will last a lifetime as they begin their journey home.
Reservation Deadline: March 31, 2025
Upon paying the $500 deposit to complete your reservation, you will receive an invoice for the remaining balance, to be paid in two installments on April 15 and May 15, 2025.
Details
Cost
Silicon Valley Youth Entrepreneur Tour
US$ 4500 /person (1st and 2nd Person /Room)
US$ 3800 /person (3rd and 4th Person /Room)
Inclusive
Price includes all meals, accommodations, tuition, tickets, transportation, except airfare and insurance.
Terms
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The program cost is based on a single room for at least 2 people and up to 4 people. Additional charge of US$2,000 will apply for single person room.
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All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, except during supervised educational sessions led by Sparknify staff.
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Please book your flight to arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) no later than 5:00 PM PST on July 6, 2025.
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The itinerary provided is a sample and subject to change. Sparknify reserves the right to make adjustments as needed.
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How does this program differ from other summer educational programs for overseas students?Many overseas summer programs focus on sightseeing or mass education in dormitory settings. This program stands out with its personalized approach, offering an insider’s view of how Silicon Valley startups operate. Students engage directly with mentors and industry leaders, including visionaries behind major tech companies and founders of leading startups, gaining unique insights into innovation and entrepreneurship. Through hands-on projects, students collaborate in dynamic environments, fostering critical thinking and creativity. The program concludes with participants pitching ideas to real investors and engineers, bridging education with real-world application. Beyond immediate learning, this experience shapes their mindset and approach to challenges, leaving a lifelong impact on how they think, work, and innovate.
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Do I need to know English to join the program?No, English proficiency is not a mandatory requirement for either adults or children to join the program. However, having a good grasp of English can significantly enrich your experience by making it easier to fully engage with the content, communicate with instructors and peers, and participate in discussions. To ensure inclusivity, live summarized translation services will be provided during certain events, particularly during instructional classes. Participants will have access to earphones for real-time translation, enabling everyone to follow along and fully benefit from the program’s offerings. This ensures that language barriers do not hinder your ability to enjoy and learn from the activities and sessions provided.
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What level of technical skills are required for my child before joining the program?The program is thoughtfully designed to accommodate children between 10 and 15 years old, making it accessible and engaging for a wide range of participants. While prior technical skills, such as programming or computer-aided design (CAD), can provide an advantage and may enhance the learning experience, they are by no means a prerequisite for joining. The program emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that children with diverse skill levels feel welcome and supported. Participants are placed in mixed-age and mixed-skill group settings, fostering an environment where everyone’s abilities are appreciated and contribute to the collective learning process. This approach not only helps children learn from each other but also encourages teamwork, creativity, and peer support. The program’s structure ensures that all participants, regardless of their prior experience, can actively engage, build confidence, and develop valuable new skills while contributing meaningfully to group projects and activities.