University of Iowa News Release

July 29, 2008

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Video Feature: UI inspires next generation of entrepreneurs

University of Iowa staff and alumni are inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs by giving young people the tools they need to start a business of their very own.

The Jacobson Institute for Youth Entrepreneurship, organized through the UI Tippie College of Business, held the 12th annual UI Entrepreneurship Camp in July 2008. More than 85 youth from eastern and central Iowa spent time learning the nuts and bolts of how to get started in the business world. Dawn Bowlus, the director for the Jacobson Institute for Youth Entrepreneurship, said that each student focused on a business opportunity within the skills and interests that they already had developed.

In addition to working on their own projects, the campers met other entrepreneurs who have already put their ideas into action. Every year one of Iowa City's own entrepreneurs takes time out of his busy schedule to share his personal experiences with the students. Paul Heyn, the owner of Heyn's Ice Cream and a former UI student, started his ice cream shop 20 years ago. What wisdom would this successful entrepreneur give to those just starting out in the business?

"Keep dreaming ... keep on dreaming," Heyn said.

STORY SOURCE: University of Iowa News Service, 300 Plaza Centre One, Suite 371, Iowa City, Iowa 52242-2500

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Bowlus, Jacobson Institute for Youth Entrepreneurship, 319-335-0985; Tom Snee, 319-384-0010 (office), 319-541-8434 (cell), tom-snee@uiowa.edu; Video: Katie Mulvahill