The Pueblo Latino Chamber of Commerce launched its 20th annual Junior Latino Chamber Program, a four-week summer business camp that introduces middle school students to entrepreneurship while helping them develop professional and leadership skills.
The 2026 program began July 6 and runs through July 30. This year’s class includes 18 students representing eight Pueblo County middle schools. Participants attend Monday through Thursday, learning how to develop a business from the ground up by creating business names, logos, mission statements, marketing plans, financial statements and location analyses with guidance from local business leaders. This year’s program attracted more than 60 applicants — the highest number in the program’s history — with enrollment limited to 20 students.
In addition to business planning, students receive instruction in organization, time management and accountability. The program is modeled after a summer job, with participants earning a paycheck stipend upon successful completion. The program concludes with an awards luncheon where students present their business plans, receive certificates and paychecks and are recognized alongside sponsors and community partners.
Since the program’s inception 20 years ago, more than 240 students have participated, representing every middle school in Pueblo County. Many alumni have gone on to pursue higher education, launch businesses, serve on community boards and build professional careers.
Community business leaders lead each class session, providing students with firsthand exposure to entrepreneurship and opportunities to connect with potential mentors. The chamber plans to continue offering the program each July as funding allows and hopes to expand enrollment, add educational field trips and increase accessibility for students throughout the region. Businesses and organizations interested in supporting the program through sponsorships, in-kind donations or classroom presentations are encouraged to contact the Pueblo Latino Chamber.
