May 07, 2010

Popular CampCEO returns with new format

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The popular youth entrepreneurship camp, CampCEO, returns to Southern Illinois University Carbondale this summer as CampCEO Crash Course with a new format and expanded participant age group.

The camp, which has gained national recognition, originated six years ago as a weeklong camp for teenage entrepreneurs. In response to the current economy, the camp became a one-day event last year and it was so popular, it’s back in that format for 2010. CampCEO Crash Course is now open to all high school-age youths and a full day of activities is set for July 9, starting at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center.

The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It features business development training, financial advice, marketing concepts, networking experiences with area entrepreneurs, visits to successful locale businesses and even a bit of magic.

“Youth entrepreneurship remains a top priority to the culture of our region and our state,” said Emily Carter, director of entrepreneurship and business development at the University. “Continuing with last year’s one-day camp format, we are again making CampCEO a more affordable option for summer experiences at SIUC. We are excited to bring the kids to campus and into some of the region’s successful small businesses so they can experience entrepreneurship first hand.”

The cost of the camp is $49 and that covers breakfast, lunch and a snack as well as camp materials, a T-shirt and transportation to the various participating sites throughout the day. Registration is on a first come, first served basis and is limited to a maximum of 28 participants.

To register or learn more about CampCEO Crash Course, contact the Southern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center at 618/453-3805, e-mail info@campceo.biz or check out the camp website at www.campceo.biz.

The Southern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center hosts CampCeo Crash Course but it wouldn’t be possible without regional business partners including: Regions Bank, Arthur Agency, WSIL TV, Sao’s Asian Bistro and Black Diamond Harley-Davidson. For more information about the center and the business development services it offers to entrepreneurs throughout the region contact the center’s director, Robyn Laur Russell, at 618/453-3805.