When is it?

Ohio Business Week will be held July 21-28, 2019 at Ohio University in Athens, OH.

How is OBW different from other camps?

OBW is the only week-long, residential business and entrepreneurship camp in Ohio.

Who attends OBW?

High school students who have an interest in business, entrepreneurship or just want to experience college and explore different careers attend the camp.

How does OBW work?

Students are divided into companies. Each company is led by a business pro, who will mentor the students throughout the week as students develop a unique service or product idea to solve a real-world business problem. Consultants and speakers from various businesses and industries will visit with the students, discussing important topics that will help them craft their business, financial, and marketing plans, which will bring their idea to market. The program culminates in a presentation to business executives at the end of the week, when students pitch their ideas to prospective investors.

What is a typical day like?

A day at OBW starts around 8:00 am and wraps up back at the dorm at 10:00 pm During each action packed day participants dive into the world of business by making "real life" decisions with their team, hear from real-world business leaders and participate in interactive projects with other teens from across the state. It's not all work, though! The week is packed with a load of fun including dances, contests, a talent show and plenty of free time activities. 

What do students learn?

Students learn foundational business skills in management, finance, and marketing. By working in a company, they learn how to exercise their independent judgment and leadership skills while honing collaborative skills in a diverse group environment that emphasizes teamwork.

How are students better prepared for college?

Students get a preview of what it will feel like to go to college by living in dorms and working in university facilities. They forge friendships with other students from different backgrounds. And those students who are thinking about majoring in business will be able to explore what that would be like at OBW.

Your tag-line is “Prepare for Life, Achieve Success.” How are students better prepared for life to achieve success?

Students are immersed in foundational business learning during the week. They meet inspiring people that they wouldn’t normally have the chance to meet or get to know. They also get a preview of how it will be to work in a real-life, project-based team – from working with different personalities and work styles to learning leadership and entrepreneurship skills directly from business pros!

The very process of the program is unique in that the students see how their thoughts, ideas, and dreams can grow into something real and tangible—in one short week! For many, that is a very powerful and transformational experience. Many alumni say how OBW helped them gain an expanded sense of self and independence, a better sense of future goals, and a willingness and openness to explore new places, people, and ideas.

What are the eligibility requirements?

  • Current high school students

  • C+ or higher grade point average

  • Endorsement of high school teacher, counselor, coach, or administrator

How much does the camp cost?

The fee is only $449, which covers all expenses for meals, housing, and materials for the entire seven-day, six-night stay at Ohio University. Some students bring extra spending money for snacks, pizza and purchases at the on-campus bookstore.

How can the fee be so low?

Every student who attends OBW has a scholarship sponsor who pays for nearly 60 percent, or $500, of all program costs. Learn more about our generous sponsors!

 Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Please complete the Financial Aid form or contact the Ohio Business Week Foundation for more information.

Can I attend with a friend?

Absolutely! If students wish to share a dorm room with a friend, simply complete the Roommate Request section of the application. 

When will I find out if I'm accepted? 
Applications are reviewed as they are received. If you are accepted, you will receive your acceptance letter and enrollment packet in the mail usually within two to three weeks.