Iowa high school students are invited to register now for this summer’s 2026 Business Horizons, a program of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation.
The five-day program is available to all Iowa high school students in grades 9-12. Now in its 43rd edition, Business Horizons will be from Sunday to Thursday, July 19-23, at Grand View University in Des Moines.
ABI Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Meg Schneider said she was pleased to be the program host this year.
“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to student success, community engagement, and expanding access to high-impact, hands-on learning experiences,” she added.
Student participants spend an action-packed week working in teams to solve a real-world challenge by creating an innovative product or service and building a business around it. Stepping into the role of entrepreneurs, they use creativity and critical thinking skills to develop their ideas from concept to launch. Along the way, they build resilience as they adapt, problem-solve, and learn what it takes to turn an idea into reality.
The week wraps up with competitions in which teams pitch their businesses to investors, film and edit infomercials, and showcase their work at a trade show. Industry professionals serve as judges.
In addition, Iowa business and industry leaders share insights through interactive presentations and mentoring as part of Business Horizons.
The long-standing ABI program includes leadership development activities, hands-on tours of local businesses, opportunities to practice independently living like a college student, and fun after-hours social events to help students build confidence, friendships, and connections from across Iowa.
Students who register by Sunday, June 7, are eligible for an early bird rate of $475. The full program cost is $650 and includes all meals, lodging, activities, and materials. Need-based financial assistance is available and can be requested through the online registration form. Registration will remain open through Sunday, July 5, or until the program is filled.
To learn more, nominate, or register students for the program, visit here.
