Big Dreams Academy
A live, fully virtual 12-week business academy teaching youth how to build real businesses within the outdoor industry. Limited to 10 students per cohort.
Turn Your Outdoor Passion Into a Real Business.
The Big Dreams Academy is not a summer camp. It's a serious, structured business education program designed specifically for young anglers and hunters who want to build something real. Over 12 weeks, students work through a proven curriculum covering entrepreneurship, branding, marketing, conservation, and leadership — all through the lens of the outdoor industry they love.
Scholarships funded by Outdoorstra partners make this program available at no cost to qualifying students.
Real Business Plan
Every graduate leaves with a complete, investor-ready business plan for an outdoor industry venture.
Personal Brand
Students build their personal brand identity — logo, bio, social presence, and professional pitch.
Mentor Network
Direct access to professional anglers, hunters, guides, and outdoor business owners throughout the program.
Pitch Experience
Students present their business concept to a panel of industry professionals at the virtual graduation.
The Curriculum
12 missions across 12 weeks — every lesson is built around the outdoor industry.
Foundations of Entrepreneurship
What it means to be an entrepreneur, identifying your outdoor passion, and turning ideas into opportunities.
Business Planning & Strategy
Building a business model, defining your target market, competitive analysis, and writing your business plan.
Branding & Marketing
Creating a brand identity, digital marketing fundamentals, social media strategy, and content creation.
Sales & Revenue
Pricing strategy, sales fundamentals, customer acquisition, and building sustainable revenue streams.
Conservation & Stewardship
The outdoor entrepreneur's responsibility to the land, water, and wildlife — conservation as a business value.
Leadership & Pitch Day
Leadership development, communication skills, and presenting your business to a panel of industry professionals.
Who Should Apply
- Youth ages 13–18 with a passion for fishing, hunting, or the outdoors
- Students who want to build a business, brand, or career in the outdoor industry
- Young people ready to commit to 12 weeks of live virtual instruction
- Motivated self-starters who want mentorship from real industry professionals
- Students whose families support their entrepreneurial goals
"The Big Dreams Academy didn't just teach me about business — it showed me that my passion for fishing could actually become a career. I left with a real business plan and the confidence to pursue it."
"Watching my daughter develop her business idea, present to sponsors, and build her personal brand was one of the most inspiring things I've ever witnessed."
Apply for the 2026 Cohort
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Cohort size is limited to 10 students. Apply early to secure your spot.