Registration Deadline Approaching for High School Business Horizons Program

June 27, 2023 | Download PDF

There is still time for Iowa high school students (grades 9-12) to register for Iowa’s premier statewide summer innovation program, Business Horizons, held July 16-20 at Drake University.

Attendees will combine hands-on, entrepreneurial experiences with team-oriented challenges to foster their problem-solving, creativity, and leadership skills. While working in teams with peers from across the state, students will create a business solution to a real-world problem, and use their combined talents and knowledge to compete in unique entrepreneurial competitions. 

Throughout an action-packed five days, students benefit from insight from industry professionals, and take part in dynamic workshops on valuable topics – from project management to AI technology. Attendees will explore Iowa opportunities through off-site business visits, experience Iowa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem at Des Moines’ 1 Million Cups gathering, and hear from excellent speakers like national financial literacy expert, Adam Carroll (National Financial Educators).

“Business Horizons is a camp reimagined,” says Brooke Seeliger, former participant and student at Southeast Polk High School. “You meet close friends, learn about business, and build people skills, public speaking skills, and leadership. No other camp can compare to how much fun this one is.”

To learn more and register, students should “Apply” at www.BusinessHorizonsIowa.org. The program cost is $400, which covers all meals, lodging, activities, and materials. Need-based financial assistance is available and may be requested through the online application form. Applications will be accepted through July 10.

“Students often need encouragement from a parent, educator, or friend in order to take the leap to attend,” says program director Jessi McQuerrey, “but by the end of the week, they don’t want to leave. They accomplish more than they thought possible, gain renewed self-confidence, and meet new friends and mentors they’ll stay in touch with for years to come. We see tremendous growth in our participants over the five days.”

The Presenting Sponsor of this year’s program is Collins Aerospace. Business Horizons is provided annually by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation.