Share Your Expertise. Shape a Career.
Outdoorstra mentors are the backbone of the Big Dreams Academy. We're looking for professionals who want to invest their knowledge in the next generation of outdoor entrepreneurs, leaders, and conservationists.
Why Become a Mentor
You've built something real in the outdoor industry. Now you have the chance to pass that knowledge on to young people who are hungry to do the same. Mentors in the Outdoorstra network don't just answer questions — they help shape the future of the industry they love.
Guest Speaker Sessions
Join a live virtual class to share your story, expertise, and lessons learned with the current cohort of students.
One-on-One Mentorship
Work directly with a student on their business idea, offering guidance, feedback, and real-world perspective.
Pitch Day Judges
Serve on the graduation panel and provide professional feedback as students present their business plans.
Resource Contributions
Share templates, tools, articles, or videos that help students build their businesses and careers.
Who We're Looking For
If you've built a career or business in the outdoor industry, you have something valuable to share.
Fishing & Angling
Professional anglers, guides, tournament competitors, fly fishing instructors, charter captains
Hunting & Wildlife
Hunting guides, outfitters, wildlife biologists, land managers, waterfowl professionals
Business & Entrepreneurship
Outdoor brand founders, retailers, manufacturers, marketing professionals, financial advisors
Conservation & Stewardship
Conservation leaders, nonprofit directors, land trust professionals, environmental educators
Media & Content
Outdoor writers, photographers, videographers, podcast hosts, social media creators
Leadership & Coaching
Youth coaches, leadership trainers, motivational speakers, career counselors
What's the Time Commitment?
We respect that your time is valuable. Mentors can engage at whatever level fits their schedule — from a single guest speaker session to a full cohort mentorship relationship. There is no minimum requirement.
Guest Speaker
Join one live class session per cohort to share your story and answer student questions.
Active Mentor
Work with one or more students throughout the 12-week cohort with regular check-ins.
Pitch Day Judge
Attend the virtual graduation and provide feedback on student business presentations.
"Sponsoring a student scholarship was one of the best investments we made this year. Watching a young person grow into a future industry leader — that's priceless."
"I spent 20 minutes on a call with a 15-year-old who had a better business plan than most adults I've met. This program is the real deal."
Apply to Become a Mentor
Tell us about yourself and how you'd like to contribute. We'll follow up within 3 business days.