YES Camp Students Present Business Plans Before Business Leaders

Local high school students participating in Texas A&M International University's Youth Entrepreneurship (YES) Summer Camp will have the opportunity to present their business plans before community business leaders Thursday, July 5.

The YES Camp, now in its fourth year, is taught by economics professor Dr. Michael Patrick and teaches students how to develop a business plan. It also explores methods of raising capital for a business, financing strategies, consumer satisfaction, market research and business costs.

Four finalists will present their business plans during competitions held at morning and afternoon sessions. The morning session is scheduled from 9 - 11:30 a.m. and the afternoon session from 1:30 - 4 p.m. Both will take place in Pellegrino Hall 204.

Students will also be recognized for their successful completion of the program during a reception scheduled from 11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. in the Great Room of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library. Mayor Betty Flores will address the students during an appearance at the event.

Patrick said the program has received solid support.

"Our YES Summer Camp enjoys the steady support of local for-profit and non-profit organizations that recognize the importance of educating youth about the role that free enterprise and enterprise development play in achieving economic growth, community renewal and individual success," he said.

Program sponsors include the Laredo Development Foundation, Laredo Manufacturing Association, Wells Fargo Bank, The Laredo Chamber of Commerce, The Laredo National Bank, South Texas National Bank, Junior Achievement-Laredo and AEP-Central Power & Light.

For further information on the YES Camp or how to enroll, please contact Dr. Patrick at (956) 326-2546. Information can also be obtained by visiting the University's Web Page at www.tamiu.edu. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu