STUDY SESSION • City Council
July 14, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jeff Boynton, City Manager
ORIGINATED BY: Jorge Orozco, Senior Administrative Analyst SUBJECT: SPONSORSHIP OF BIOLA UNIVERSITY'S INNOVATION CAMP
BACKGROUND
The City of La Mirada values partnerships and programs that create meaningful opportunities for local youth. Educational initiatives that support creativity, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness help strengthen long-term economic vitality and promote student success.
The Innovation Camp held at Biola University is an immersive, week-long summer program for high school students from La Mirada High School, Norwalk High School, and John H. Glenn High School. The program was developed through collaboration between the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District (NLMUSD), Biola University, and the City Earlier this year, the Council recognized those involved in helping to establish the program.
FINDINGS
The Innovation Camp introduces students to entrepreneurship, innovation, and design- thinking principles through workshops, interactive learning, and mentorship from Biola faculty, alumni, Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, and staff. Students develop business ideas, validate their concepts through customer interviews, create prototypes, and present their final ideas to a panel of community leaders, Biola representatives, and parents. In addition to entrepreneurial skill-building, the camp supports student development in the areas of communication, teamwork, public speaking, collaboration, and leadership. The program provides students with exposure to college life through campus tours and activities, helping build enthusiasm for higher education and future academic pathways.
This year's program has generated strong student interest. Rather than providing one camp for 24 local participants, Biola is willing to host a second camp for another 24 students. Of the 48 total students, 34 are La Mirada residents. To support the expanded program, Biola University has requested funding assistance from NLMUSD and the Cities of Norwalk and La Mirada. Each week costs about $3,000 to host, and Biola and the School District are covering the cost of the first week. The City's share for the second week would be $2,250 for supplies and other camp-related materials.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
It is recommended the City Council review and discuss funding for the Innovation Camp at Biola University.