Student-Run Businesses

Across the Indiana Uplands, hundreds of high school students gain work experience through student‑run businesses. In partnership with schools and local employers, students reshape work‑based learning while building skills that extend beyond graduation.

From manufacturing and machining to printing and coffee shops, students contribute as employees, leaders, and entrepreneurs—developing career awareness, employability skills, and confidence through daily operations.

Each student‑run business is shaped by its local context. Rather than following a one‑size‑fits‑all approach, schools collaborate with regional employers who provide mentorship, feedback, and industry insight. Embedded within high schools and guided by business plans, students learn through responsibility.

Students develop skills in:

Logistics and operations
Customer service and sales
Design, production, and marketing
Teamwork, leadership, and public speaking

Through iteration and problem‑solving, students gain a deeper understanding of work environments and the technical and interpersonal skills needed in the Uplands workforce.

Uplands Made: Connecting Student Entrepreneurs

Running a business as a high school student isn’t easy. That shared challenge brings students together each year at Uplands Made, a regional conference for student‑run businesses.

Hosted by Regional Opportunity Initiatives in partnership with schools and employers, the conference brings together students, educators, and industry partners for keynote speakers, student‑led breakout sessions, and peer learning focused on running a business.

Students take the lead throughout the day—facilitating sessions on topics such as marketing, production, technology, and sales. The event also includes a Student Expo, where businesses showcase their products and services.

Together, participants build more than businesses. They build confidence, connections, and a student‑led network that reflects the momentum of the Indiana Uplands.

Running Businesses, Making Connections

Eagle Manufacturing
Brown County High School

CNC Machining, EngineeringDesign, Graphics Design, Decals, Engraving, Banners, Apparel, and more.

Jeep Engineering and Manufacturing
Northeast Dubois High School

CNC Routed Wood Products, Plasma Cut Metal Products, and Laser Engraving.

Lion Manufacturing
Loogootee High School

Laser Engraved Wood and Metal Products, 3D Printing, CNC Machining, and more.

Patriot Manufacturing
Owen Valley High School

Screen Printing, Graphics Printing, Laser Engraving, and Vinyl Printing

Shoals Grounds
Shoals High School

Coffee Shop

Wolverine Enterprises
White River Valley High School

Agriculture, Welding, Precision Machining, Fine Art, Manufacturing, Culinary, and Vinyl Printing

Edgewood Student-Run Businesses
Edgewood High School & Junior High School

Mustang Coffee Corral, Edgewood High ILC Designs, Edgewood Junior High EdgeShop

Student‑run businesses across the Indiana Uplands are supported through Regional Opportunity Initiatives’ Ready Schools Initiative and strong partnerships between schools, employers, and community organizations. Together, these collaborations help students move ideas into action—providing guidance, mentorship, and resources as businesses take shape and grow. ROI is grateful to the educators, employers, and community partners whose time, expertise, and commitment continue to strengthen student‑run businesses and expand opportunities for students across the region.

How It All Began

Launched in 2019, Eagle Manufacturing and Lion Manufacturing became the first student-run businesses in the Indiana Uplands. Watch the video to see how they got started.

#MadeInTheUplands

To learn more about student-run businesses in the Indiana Uplands or how you can support these student-run businesses, contact Emily Menkedick, Education Specialist, at emily@regionalopportunityinc.org or (812) 287-8116 ext. 110.