This summer, Iowa high school students won’t just learn about business – they’ll build one as they explore possible opportunities for their future careers.
Registration is open for Business Horizons 2026, a five-day, hands-on program hosted by the ABI Foundation. This year’s Business Horizons will be Sunday to Thursday, July 19-23, at Grand View University in Des Moines.
The annual summer event brings students together from across the state to create and launch a business idea from the ground up. The program challenges them to work in teams to develop a product, build a brand and pitch their idea to a panel of judges.
The business summer camp experience also allows participants to collaborate with business professionals, tour Iowa companies and participate in workshops focused on leadership, communication and problem-solving.
“Business Horizons puts students in the driver’s seat,” said Meg Schneider, ABI vice president of strategic initiatives, said in a news release Tuesday, April 28. “They’re not sitting in a classroom – they’re working as a team, solving real problems and gaining confidence in their ideas and abilities.”
Business Horizons is a program of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation. The statewide nonprofit works to build partnerships between business, education and communities. ABI, the voice of Iowa business since 1903, engages member companies representing all industries and sizes in all 99 Iowa counties. Collectively, the ABI members employ more than 330,000 Iowans.
Throughout the week, students compete in an investor pitch and an infomercial and trade show, building connections with peers and professionals.
Program particulars
Students of all backgrounds and interests are invited to participate to better understand how their strengths translate to real-world opportunities.
Business Horizons 2026 is open to students grades 9–12. Program fees cover lodging, meals and all activities. Need-based financial assistance is available.
Participants can save $175 by registering before Sunday, June 7. For more information or to register, visit www.BusinessHorizonsIowa.com.
