This inaugural program aims to spark creativity, build confidence, and introduce young people to the fundamentals of starting and running a business.
Sauk Valley Future Founders is made possible through a collaborative partnership between the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College, Whiteside Area Career Center, and the University of Illinois Extension 4-H Program. Together, these organizations are creating an engaging learning experience that blends education, creativity, and real-world application.
The camp will be held on Wednesday mornings from June 10 through July 1 at Whiteside Area Career Center. Throughout the program, students will explore the full entrepreneurial journey, from brainstorming business ideas and developing a brand to pricing, marketing, and preparing a product for sale. The experience culminates on July 11 with a public pop-up event where students will sell their products to the community and experience entrepreneurship in action.
“This program is about more than just business—it’s about empowering students to think creatively, take initiative, and believe in their ideas,” said Dallas Knack, Executive Director of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. “By launching Sauk Valley Future Founders, we’re investing in our youth while strengthening the long-term workforce and economic future of the Sauk Valley.”
Community members are encouraged to follow along, attend the July pop-up event, and help celebrate the creativity and hard work of these young entrepreneurs!
The inaugural year is proudly sponsored by the City of Sterling, Halo Branded Solutions, Sterling NAPA Auto Parts, Sauk Valley Bank, and Sterling Federal Bank.
For more information about Sauk Valley Future Founders, contact Dallas at 815-625-2400. To register your student, call Whiteside Area Career Center at 815-626-5810.
