This paper highlights the importance of youth entrepreneurship in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by young entrepreneurs. The authors analyze the differences between youth who become entrepreneurs by necessity or by opportunity and also review the scope and quality of policies and programs that governments, development agencies and civil society are implementing to support the groups of young entrepreneurs. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Inter-American Development Bank. Permission is granted to reproduce this paper in whole or in part for noncommercial purposes only and with proper attribution to the author(s), the Sustainable Development Department, and the Inter-American Development Bank. This document is available in English only.