Summer Business Institute

WHAT IS the Summer Business Institute? 

It is a program designed for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. PSU’s Summer Business Institute is an exciting opportunity for High School students to engage with college-level business curriculum and experience campus life. The curriculum has a focus on B-Corps, social responsibility, and sustainability, which gives students an opportunity to learn what Oregon businesses are doing to redefine traditional ideas of business. 

Upon full participation and completion of the program students will receive one business elective credit via an official transcript that can be used at any university. 

The Program

Summer Business Institute looks forward to welcoming High School students who are currently freshmen, sophomores and juniors from throughout Oregon, SW Washington and beyond to experience a taste of college life first-hand. Students have local site visits where they hear from Portland business leaders, engage in college-level coursework, and connect with a community of peers from across the state and abroad.

Students will work together in groups throughout the week with an assigned mentor to create a business idea to present to a panel of judges in a Shark-tank style pitch competition on the final day. 

Past sponsors have included LegitScript, Adidas, Claima Stories, Costco, Coca Cola, Hydroflask, Multnomah County, and Netrush. 

Cost 

$100 Program fee (Scholarships are available) *Note: Housing, 3 meals per day, and transit will be provided at no additional cost. 

Date

Sunday, July 11, 2027 - Friday, July 16, 2027 

Eligibility

At the time of applying you are a High School Freshmen, Sophomore, or Junior 

• Graduating seniors may apply; however, apps will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

Interest in Business and/or the College Experience 

• Majoring in business is not a requirement, but a genuine interest in better understanding business.

Identify as Historically Underrepresented 

• Based on economic status, ethnicity, immigration status, gender, sexual orientation, physical/mental abilities, etc.

Commitment and willingness to face unfamiliar challenges

• Expected to participate in the full duration of the program to earn the transferable accredited business elective credit. 

Timeline

Use the table below as a reference for a general timeline. This table will be updated as more information is available. 

*A detailed program schedule will be provided directly to accepted applicants prior to the start of the program. 

Summer Business Institute FAQs

Can students participate if they’re recent grads or entering the 9th grade? 

Students who are currently senior class standing and expecting to graduate the spring before the program are still eligible to apply for the program; however, their applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

Does the student need to be enrolled in a High School to participate? 

No. Students who are home-schooled, or enrolled in an alternative school program or GED program and between the ages of 14-18 may still apply. 

Where will students be staying? 

Students will be staying in on-campus housing. Location details will be provided 1-2 weeks prior to the program start date. Students will be under the supervision of program staff and mentors. All campus buildings require keycards for entry. 

Will food, transportation, housing, and toiletries be provided? 

Yes! After the high schooler is checked in to the program, food (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks), transit, and housing will be provided at no cost. Students will need to bring their own toiletries and supplies. A recommended packing list will be provided. 

Do you facilitate parent meetings or info sessions to learn more about the program?

Program info sessions can be held virtually or in-person at select schools prior to the application deadline. School of Business Staff will be conducting outreach to college & career counselors, business teachers, AVID instructors, and administrative staff. For more information, please email psusbi@pdx.edu. 

What type of coursework will students engage in during the program? 

Each day students will participate in a 60-90 min lecture, where they will learn about the basics of business. Additionally there are workshops throughout the week to supplement the lessons covered during lectures. Fields covered are Marketing, Accounting & Finance, Supply & Logistics, Business Ethics, Leadership, Management, and Business Technology. 

Do students receive credit? Where can it be used? 

Yes, upon full participation and completion of the program, students will receive one business elective credit via an official transcript, that can be used at any university. 

What happens if a student decides to enroll in The School of Business? 

SBI participants that enroll in the School of Business are eligible to join the Atmos program where they will receive $500/term in their first year at PSU ($1,500 total) 

Does the student have to participate in the entire program?

Students are required to participate in all sessions during the entirety of the program to gain the full experience and earn the college credit. Students not available for the entirety of the program should apply next year. 

What are the program benefits?

1. Upon program completion, students will have gained the following: 
2. A basic understanding in Marketing, Accounting & Finance, Supply & Logistics, Ethics, Management, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and more. 
3. 1 Elective Credit - to use at any accredited college or university. 3. New relationships with peers, School of Business faculty and staff, and business leaders. 
4. An understanding of the admissions process, financial aid and financial literacy. 
5. Confidence in building social, professional, and leadership skills. 
6. A scholarship to the PSU School of Business 

Can students reapply to the Summer Business Institute?

Yes! SBI is designed to deliver a unique experience. Participants are welcome to reapply as many years as they are eligible.