April 9, 2025 3:05 a.m.

The Umpqua Small Business Development Center and Umpqua Community College have announced the launch of “Dream It – Do It”.

A UCC release said it is a transformative summer day camp designed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Douglas County. The camp is a free opportunity, sponsored by The Ford Family Foundation, Banner Bank, and the Oregon Pacific Bank. Applications are now open online and will be through May 18th. The camp will take place from June 24th through June 26th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the main campus at UCC.

“Dream It – Do It” is exclusively open to grades 10-12 for students currently enrolled in a Douglas County school at the time of application. The camp aims to empower young minds with the belief that the pathway to business ownership simply starts with an idea. Up to 25 students in the camp will have the unique opportunity to engage with experienced business professionals, coaches, and fellow students while gaining invaluable skills, inspiring one another and developing real business plans.

Camp leader Isaiah Weiss said, “We believe in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of our community’s youth”. Weiss said, “Dream It – Do It” is not just a camp; its an opportunity for students to explore their creativity, develop essential skills, build a professional network and join the local entrepreneurial community”.

For more information about the camp including eligibility criteria and the online application process, go to: umpqua.edu/dream-it