Developing Tomorrow’s Workforce Starts Today

Workforce continues to be front of mind for all businesses and individuals. As the Foundation opens registration for our high school program, Business Horizons, we are taking a closer look at what companies are seeking in their future workforce, and how they can play a role in developing it. High school students are leaning into the workplace earlier and more intentionally than ever before, and we are thrilled to help bridge that gap between education and industry.

Business Horizons is a week-long summer program that brings together Iowa high school students and the business community to tackle real-world business challenges. Students work in teams to create new products or services, build a business around their ideas, and pitch them to industry professionals. Throughout the experience, students develop the very skills employers say they need most: initiative, creativity, analytical thinking, collaboration, communication, and resilience.

For businesses, Business Horizons offers an opportunity to engage early with the future talent pipeline, before students are choosing majors or career paths. By getting involved, companies can help shape students’ perceptions of the workplace, introduce them to career opportunities they may not have considered, and influence the skills and mindsets they bring into the workforce.

Ways Businesses Can Get Involved
There are several ways for businesses to participate in Business Horizons this summer:

• Serve as Judges or Mentors: Professionals can evaluate student pitches, infomercials, and trade show presentations, offering on sight feedback and insight. Mentors help guide teams, answer questions, and model professional problem-solving.
• Nominate Students from Their Community: Encourage and nominate high school students from their local communities to participate in this statewide program, helping expand access and ensuring students from across Iowa are represented.
• Support the Program: Financial support or sponsorship helps ensure access for students from rural, urban, and suburban communities, and diverse
  backgrounds, strengthening the future workforce for all Iowa businesses.

When businesses engage with Business Horizons, they’re not just volunteering, they’re investing. Students gain confidence, career awareness, and practical skills, while employers build brand awareness, strengthen community connections, and help cultivate a more prepared, motivated, and informed workforce.

Business Horizons takes place this summer at Grand View University, July 19-23, 2026. To learn more about getting involved, contact the Foundation or visit our website to explore partnership opportunities.