The North Iowa Area Community College John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center held IDEA Camp for middle school students on Presidents’ Day, Monday February 16, 2026. IDEA Camp is for creative and ambitious middle school students who are eager to explore entrepreneurship, develop creative problem-solving skills, and build confidence in their ability to create and innovate. No prior experience is required, just curiosity and enthusiasm.

Six students from across North Iowa attended IDEA Camp where they put into practice life’s key skills: innovation, discovery, entrepreneurship, and achievement. This hands-on program guides young innovators through the essential stages of business creation, from brainstorming ideas to crafting a solid business model. During the day, students learned the key principles of entrepreneurship, created a business plan, and presented their business in a Pitch Competition. Two student teams were awarded the top prizes:

• Cole Johnson (Southview Ankeny) and Camden Miller (Ankeny Christian) for their business CNC Fresh Bins
• Grace Koester (Homeschool) for her business Muffin

Three student teams were awarded honorable mention prizes:

• Connor Anderson (John Adams Middle School) for Victory Donuts
• Xander Cox (John Adams Middle School) for Hummel’s Dealership
• William Pritchard (Clear Lake Middle School) for Grip Gloves

IDEA Camp is one of many youth entrepreneurship initiatives at the NIACC Pappajohn Center. Raegan Hanson, NIACC Pappajohn Center Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator, said “Teaching entrepreneurship is an investment in our students – the entrepreneurial mindset drives innovation, fuels economic growth, and empowers the next generation to turn bold ideas into lasting impact. When young minds learn to think like entrepreneurs, they build the skills and confidence to redefine what’s possible and shape the future.”

IDEA Camp will be held again in July 2026, with the option to attend at multiple different locations. Updates for Summer 2026 IDEA Camp dates and locations can be found at www.pappajohncenter.com/idea-camp/. For more information, please contact Raegan Hanson at 641-422-4234 or raegan.hanson@niacc.edu. 

The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center is the expert in rural business innovation and success. In partnership with North Iowa’s Small Business Development Center, together we provide tools, support, and resources to Iowa’s entrepreneurs. We counsel both new and existing local businesses, from Main Street to industry leaders. We’re growing Iowa’s entrepreneurial culture through grade school initiatives, college and community programs, and business training and development. Contact the NIACC Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111 or pappajohn@niacc.edu. Visit the NIACC Pappajohn Center online at www.pappajohncenter.com.

# # #

Ref # 7119

The mission of North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) is to enrich lives through comprehensive educational opportunities, a commitment to learner success, community engagement, and leadership. Founded in 1918, NIACC is a nationally-recognized, two-year college located in central North Iowa, serving approximately 3,000 career and transfer students each year. Recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the nation’s leading community colleges, NIACC is where futures are found. Start your journey today at https://www.niacc.edu/apply-mkt/. Future, Found.