
US Bank BizWorld Camp Brings Financial Literacy to Life
“It’s never too early to really start learning the value of money,” says BizWorld CEO Charlene Vaca. “Kids don’t need to be burdened by adult concerns, but having a basic understanding [of finance] will make them more productive and self-aware in the future.” This Financial Literacy Month 2025, we are proud to spotlight our recent partnership with US Bank that’s transforming how students experience business education. In an age where digital payments are replacing tangible cash in children’s hands, financial literacy education is more crucial than ever. This past February, BizWorld and US Bank celebrated their 8th consecutive year of partnership with their largest camp yet—bringing entrepreneurial education to 64 students in Santa Ana, California. Beyond the Classroom Walls The two-day camp offered something traditional classroom settings can’t: immersion in a corporate environment. “This experience provided many students their first glimpse into professional workplaces. We take for granted that children want to see where adults and professionals work,” Vaca explains. “It’s exposure to something they wouldn’t normally experience.” What truly sets the camp apart is the direct involvement of US Bank volunteers who serve as business advisors and venture capitalists, offering students authentic feedback and guidance through real-world business challenges. Financial Skills in Action The BizWorld+ program doesn’t just teach financial concepts—it brings them to life. Throughout the camp, students: One noteworthy group in particular experienced the consequences of their financial choices when they invested in expensive tassels and keychains for their product… “By the end, they realized they didn’t really need the expensive materials as it really affected their profits,” Vaca shares. “During the program we work to strategically advise and question their decisions, but we don’t tell them specifically not to do something. It’s all part of learning.” Transformation Beyond Numbers Perhaps the most remarkable outcome wasn’t financial at all, but personal. Educators repeatedly express amazement at how the program transforms students, particularly those who are typically reserved. “Shy and reserved kids really activate inside of BizWorld! They often don’t have roles like this in a regular classroom, and this allows them to be little superstars. There are opportunities to pitch, create commercials, and put themselves front and center which they don’t normally get a chance to do.” Meanwhile, naturally outgoing students find their talents channeled into productive sales and leadership roles—all while learning through collaboration. Filling the Financial Literacy Gap Financial Literacy Month reminds us of the gaps in traditional education that BizWorld programs help fill. While some states and districts are beginning to prioritize financial literacy, many curricula remain outdated. “Often we’re still teaching kids the same things that our parents and we learned years and years ago. How to balance a checkbook is a perfect example—who uses checkbooks these days?!” Vaca points out. The BizWorld approach focuses on evergreen business fundamentals while ensuring relevance to today’s economy. Most importantly, it answers the perpetual student question: “Why does this matter?” “We teach kids why math is important, how writing is important, why public speaking is important—and how it all is applicable to the real world,” Charlene emphasizes. The Impact Continues For US Bank volunteers, the experience provides something equally valuable: meaningful impact. “The biggest feedback we have from volunteers is, ‘Wow, I really feel like I made a difference in young people’s lives. I really think this is something they’re going to remember,’” Vaca shares. This partnership exemplifies BizWorld’s experiential learning approach, demonstrating that financial literacy education works best when students can see, touch, and experience business concepts firsthand. As we celebrate Financial Literacy Month, BizWorld continues seeking more corporate partners who want to bring entrepreneurial mindsets to young people in their communities. “If you believe that entrepreneurialism and financial literacy are important,” Vaca invites, “please reach out.” To learn more about hosting a BizWorld camp with your organization, contact us through https://bizworld.org/sponsor-bizworld-camp/. Together, we can empower the next generation with essential financial skills.