Resources
“Make money, have fun, and become a better entrepreneur!”
-Acton Children's Business Fair participant
Unsure where to start? Our advice is to keep it simple.
First, think about what you can make with your own hands that others might enjoy.
Next, picture how you might sell it.
Finally, imagine the feeling (and responsibility) of having a little extra spending money as a result.
Learn more about the 3 Magic Seeds for starting a business. You can also check out our additional how-to videos for inspiration, advice from young entrepreneurs, and tips for parents.
For more inspiration, check out photos from the Acton Children's Business Fair of Washington, DC and the following resources:
Stories of Young Entrepreneurs
Looking for business ideas or just curious about other young entrepreneurs? Read these inspiring stories.
High Schooler Gets Down to Business
High schooler and young entrepreneur Fenley Scurlock is the co-author of Getting Down to Business, in which he and young entrepreneur Jason Liaw share insights from their interviews with 51 business leaders. Covering topics such as starting and running a business, building business skills, deciding whether or not to go to college, and making money, Down to Business offers practical advice for anyone interested in business and entrepreneurship. Fenley’s entrepreneurial journey began at age seven when he launched a business at the Acton Children’s Business Fair of Washington, DC, where he sold artisanal soaps and whimsical pens. That was just the beginning for Fenley, who continued selling his products at farmer’s markets, other business fairs, and in his online store. He has won multiple business, sales, and marketing awards and has been interviewed by national and local media outlets. He was one of 18 students from around the country selected as a 2024 Davidson Ambassador for social entrepreneurship.
Sisters Created Washington, DC, Business
When sisters Anna, Leila, and Noor launched Balloon Zoom in the Fall of 2011, they wanted to create a company that was not only fun, but could also give back to the Washington, DC, community. In addition to running parties and corporate events, and crafting unique balloon decor for DC businesses and special events, Balloon Zoom has given hundreds of dollars to Janney Elementary School and Heifer International, purchased coats for Washington, DC, children in need, and donated its expertise to area nursing homes and community events.
From Lemonade Stand to Lemonade Company
Mikaila Ulmer is CEO of Me & the Bees Lemonade, a company she launched at the Acton Children's Business Fair in Austin, Texas. Ulmer now bottles and sells Me & the Bees Lemonade at Whole Foods and other stores in Austin and donates a portion of profits to the protection of honeybees. Ulmer appeared on Shark Tank in March 2015.
This Young Innovator Reinvented Water
Carter Kostler wanted his mom to be able to drink her fruit-infused water on the go. So at age 13, he designed a bottle that would allow her to do just that. Carter sold these “Define Bottles” online and in small stores. About being an entrepreneur he says, "It is important to know from the beginning that there are a lot of highs and lows and there is no such thing as overnight success. It takes a lot of hard work and you have to be strong to keep moving forward."
Business Ideas for Kids
From making cat toys to designing websites, check out these 101+ Business Ideas for Kids by Kris Solie-Johnson.
Guide to Writing a Business Plan
From Biz Kid$, this worksheet helps young entrepreneurs think about marketing (from the name of their business to who they will sell to) and financials (including materials, pricing, and profit).