BLP
BLP 2023
35th Annual Keybank Business Leadership Program
KEF Winning Team of Business Leadership Program 2023
Congratulations Team CUREC!
Team CUREC Presenting
Team Burridge Presenting
Team Deloitte Presenting
Team KEF Presenting
Team Enterprise Presenting
Team KeyBank Presenting
Adam Warner at the KeyBank Business Leadership Program

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 1, 2024

Program Dates: June 23 - June 29, 2024

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 KeyBank Business Leadership Program (BLP) this upcoming summer. BLP is designed to provide a high-impact learning experience through a case study. Participating students will gain hands-on experience competing in a case challenge set to solve real-world business problems.

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 $1000 scholarship to the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business.

Apply Now

Download BLP Postcard

  • Dec. 1: Application opens.
  • April 1: Application closes. 
  • April 5: Recommendation form due.
  • April 26: Notification of accepted students.
  • May 3: Deadline to accept program offer.

  • The program is intended for students who identify as underrepresented, diverse, students of color and/or first generation, or who are interested in gaining new perspective on issues related to business and diversity.
  • Priority consideration for Colorado Residents and students enrolled in a Colorado High School 
  • Current high school juniors entering their senior year during the Fall 2024 academic year
  • Incoming first-year Leeds School of Business during the Fall 2024 academic year

IT’S FREE — the cost of tuition is generously supported by KeyBank, the Leeds School of Business, and corporate partners. Our 2023 corporate partners and college partners included KeyBank, Key Equipment Finance, Burridge Center for Finance, CU Real Estate Center, and Deloitte. 

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.

  • Connect and learn from leading experts from major corporations and get answers about their business and career path
  • Meet Leeds School of Business faculty and administrators
  • Gain confidence while strengthening business and leadership skills
  • Make new friends with students from a range of high schools

Program Applications Open Thursday, December 1, 2023 and close Monday, April 1, 2024 at 11:59 (MST)

Part I: Prepare Short Responses 

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 KeyBank Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition must address the program’s interest in short responses. 

  1. Why should you be selected to participate in KeyBank Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition?
  2. How will you contribute to the diversity of the Business Leadership Program and/or Women in Business Case Competition summer programs?
  3. Please describe how you usually contribute in a team setting? 
  4. Please list your extracurricular activities, clubs, work experience, family responsibilities, volunteer work, and any other leadership roles, including the years of your involvement and positions. (No word limit on activities section)

Part II: Application 

  • Begin your application, which includes short responses, details about 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 Form 

  • 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 Friday, April 5, 2024.

  • 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.  

  • 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.  

  • 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. 


If you have any questions, please contact

Gerardo Ceballos at Gerardo.Ceballos@colorado.edu or 303-492-7800