Business Leadership Program
Program Dates: Sunday, June 21 - Saturday, June 27, 2026
Get notified when the 2026 application opens by filling out the form below!
The world of business is changing, and your perspective is needed!
Interested in creating solutions for today’s business problems and gaining experience working in diverse teams while developing connections with Leeds School of Business faculty, staff, and corporate partners? If so, we invite you to apply to be part of the Business Leadership Program (BLP) hosted by the Opening Doors to Achievement (ODA) office at the Leeds School of Business. BLP is designed to provide a free high-impact learning experience through a case competition. Participating students will gain hands-on experience competing in a case challenge set to solve real-world business problems at the #1 business school in Colorado.
As part of the BLP program, participants are tasked with working in teams to create and implement a marketing campaign for our corporate partners. The team that creates the best solution will win a $1,000 scholarship to the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business.
Previous corporate partners have included: EY, Deloitte, Keybank, and other large and small businesses across Colorado and the nation.Ìý
- Dec. 1: Application opens
- March 13: Application closes
- April 20: Notification of accepted students
- May 1: Deadline to accept program offer
*Timeline subject to change based on discretion of Opening Doors to Achievement staff
- The program is designed for a diverse array of students which can include but is not limited to first-generation college students and/or students from low-income backgrounds. Students who are interested in gaining new perspectives on issues related to business and diversity are also encouraged to apply.
- You must be a Colorado resident or currently attending a Colorado high school
- Non-residents/ students attending high school outside of Colorado will not be considered
- Current high school juniors, during the 2025-26 academic year
- Incoming Leeds School of Business first-year students, starting the Fall 2026Ìýsemester
This program is open to all and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, political philosophy, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression in accordance with state, federal and Regent law.
IT’S FREEÌý—Ìýthe cost of tuition is generously supported by the Leeds School of Business and corporate partners. Our 2025 corporate partners and college partners included Colorado Health and Tech Centers, Elevations Credit Union, EY & Leeds Accounting Department, Saluzo Business Solutions, and Zoptic.
The only expectation is that you participate for the full duration of the program, which includes staying overnight, having fun, networking, and stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Get insider advice from top business professionals and hear real stories about their career journeys.
- Learn directlyfrom Leeds professors and staff who will guide you through hands-on activities.
- Boost your confidence while building real business and leadership skills you can use right away.
- Meet new friends from different high schools who share your interests and ambitions.
- Stand out on your college applications with an unforgettable experience to highlight.
- Stay on ºÚÁÏÉçÇøÍøâ€™s beautiful campus and get a sneak peek of what college life is really like.
Program Applications Open Monday, December 1, 2025Ìýand close Friday, March 13, 2026Ìýat 11:59 (MST)
Part I: Prepare Short ResponsesÌý
Respond to the following short prompts with a minimum of 100 words and a maximum of 150 words each. Students who are interested in applying to both the Business Leadership Program and/orÌýWomen in Business Case CompetitionÌýmust address the program’s interest in short responses.Ìý
- Why should you be selected to participate in Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition?
- How will you contribute to the diversity of the Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition summer programs?
- Please describe how you usually contribute in a team setting?
- Please list your leadership roles and extracurricular activities, clubs, work experience, family responsibilities, and volunteer work, including the years of your involvement and positions. (No word limit on activities section)
Part II: ApplicationÌý
- Begin your application, which includes short responses, details about leadership roles, extracurricular involvement, additional questions, and your unofficial high school transcript.
- Review your application before submitting it. You will receive a confirmation email from Airtable informing you it is complete.
Part III: Recommendation FormÌý
- Once you have submitted your application, an email will be sent to your recommender. Be sure to follow up with your recommender to ensure they complete your recommendation by the application deadline of March 13, 2026.
- Start by brainstorming and listing out the unique qualities and experiences that make you different from other applicants. This can include your cultural background, personal interests, and any challenges you have overcome.
- Be specific and provide examples to illustrate how your unique qualities will contribute to the diversity of the Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition. For example, if you are a first-generation college student, you could discuss how your experiences and perspective will add to the program's diversity.
- Consider how your participation in the program aligns with your academic and career goals. This can include your field of study, extracurricular activities, and any relevant work or volunteer experience. Ìý
- Show how the program will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to achieve your future goals. For example, if you are interested in pursuing a career in finance, you could discuss how the Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition will provide you with the opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain practical experience.
- Be sure to highlight your passion and enthusiasm for the program. The admissions committee wants to see that you are genuinely excited about the opportunity and will be an active and engaged participant.
- Proofread your essays carefully to ensure they are free of spelling and grammar errors. A well-written essay will make a strong impression and help you stand out from other applicants. Ìý
- Finally, don't be afraid to ask for feedback on your essays from teachers, counselors, or other trusted mentors. They can provide valuable insights and help you improve your essays before submitting them.Ìý
If you have any questions, please contact
Tzigane Martin, Program Manager, at Tzigane.Martin@Colorado.EDUÌýor (303)-492-5987