A new summer bootcamp in Michigan City aims to encourage young entrepreneurs.
The Buddingpreneur Bootcamp will explore aspects of entrepreneurship for two weeks beginning July 14. Youth ages 7 to 17 are welcome to attend at no cost, with separate camp sessions organized by ages: 7-13 and 14-17.
“I hope camp participants are exposed to the atmosphere that’s needed to help them succeed, believe in themselves and most importantly, open their minds to the possibilities of accomplishing whatever you put your mind to,” said Antonio Conley, Kidpreneur Program and bootcamp founder, in a press release.
The camp uses activities, conversations, field trips, resources and tools to showcase the entrepreneurial process.
Topics for ages 7-13 include creating a vision board, financing, pitching your business, having confidence in your ideas, marketing and social media and designing flyers, posters and business cards.
Topics for ages 14-17 include discovering your passion, identifying target markets, using Canva for design, budgeting, leadership styles and business structures. All participants will be exposed to mentorship and real-world examples of entrepreneurship as well as wrap up their experience with a marketplace, expo event and celebration.
“Youth entrepreneurship is very important to our community. Many kids haven’t been exposed to the role of entrepreneur,” Conley said. “They don’t understand how the ideas that they sit and daydream about daily can truly become reality. Our community leaders need to ensure youth are given the exposure to the concept and resources to work toward their goals.”
The Youth Entrepreneurship Summer Bootcamp unites the Kidpreneur program and the Economic Development Corp. Michigan City through the Vibrant Michigan City initiative.
“Engaging youth in entrepreneurship and community activities is a component of the Vibrant Michigan City plan,” Clarence Hulse, EDCMC executive director, said. “By introducing youth to the concept of entrepreneurship as well as the elements of that role, we are helping open doors for our youth and encouraging additional career pathways.”
Camp attendees will meet from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday starting July 14 at the Buddingpreneur Center, 1919 U.S. Highway 20. Learn more here.
