‘BizCamp’ Marketplace helps jump-start young entrepreneurs in Shreveport

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—An entrepreneurial training event for Shreveport’s youth returned for the 23rd year. 

Bizcamp kicked off its annual James K. Elrod Marketplace at Mall St. Vincent so that students could learn life and professional skills, such as developing a business plan. This year, 38 students will receive a micro-investment and start their first business by purchasing products from a local warehouse for resale. 

Students displayed their merchandise at the mall from noon until 4 p.m., and community members had the opportunity to shop and purchase goods. 

“This program has gotten a lot of young people who are now in business in Shreveport started,” said Inner City Entrepreneur Institute Program Director Roy Burrell. “Harvard calls it a mini MBA program for youth, so that tells you how important that program is.”

Bizcamp is a joint initiative between the Inner City Entrepreneur Institute, NSU, and Caddo parish schools.