In a collaborative effort to strengthen the local pipeline of future innovators and business leaders, Mississippi State University at MCITy, the Vicksburg Warren School District  and members of the Leadership Vicksburg program are currently leading a six-week Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for high school students in Vicksburg.

The program began in mid-January and brings students together weekly to learn the fundamentals of building and launching a successful business. Each session explores a key component of entrepreneurship — from identifying problems and validating ideas to understanding customers, revenue models and effective pitching. Students also hear directly from local entrepreneurs and business leaders who share real-world lessons from their own entrepreneurial journeys.

The bootcamp will culminate in a mock pitch competition on March 18 at Hinds Community College, where students will present their business concepts and practice communicating their opportunities to judges and community leaders.