Pittsboro, NC –
Observe the opportunity for children to launch their very own startup business!
Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace. Prizes will be given to the top three to four booths. Booths will be judged on the following criteria – most original, highest business potential, and best presentation. The Children’s Business Fair is designed to give children the experience of selling a product or service. We look forward to having your children participate in the Children’s Business Fair.
Apply to be a business in the fair HERE
We will host up to 25 booths from 1 pm to 4 pm at the November 4, 2023 Children’s Business Fair at the MOSAIC at Chatham Park in Pittsboro, NC. There is a charge of $25 per business. Payment can be made HERE.
This event is sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce, Mountaire Farms, the MOSAIC at Chatham Park, Acton Academy, the Acton School of Business, and the generous support of volunteers. We all believe that principled entrepreneurs are heroes and role models for the next generation.
How do I apply? Can I apply as part of a group?
Applications must be submitted online through this website. Please submit one application for each business. Children working as a group should submit one application that includes each child’s information. No more than 3 participants per business.
What is on the application?
The application asks kids to think through some simple, but important elements of their business:
What product or service do you plan to sell?
What price will you charge for each product/service? How much will each product/service cost you?
How will you pay for your startup costs? If someone is helping you with your startup costs, how will you pay that person back?
How will you advertise/market your business before the fair?
At the end of the fair, how will you determine if your business was a success?
What if someone else has the same business idea?
Two cupcake businesses? Not a problem. In general, we will let market forces play out, though we will let later entries know if another applicant has a similar idea so the later entrant can decide what to do.
How will the fair be set up?
All businesses are responsible for their setup – tables, chairs, trash cans, tents (if preferred), etc. The fair will be an outdoor event.
Will electricity be available?
Possibly to 1 – 2 booths. You should inquire when you submit your application.
What are the rules?
Prizes will be given to the top 3 – 4 booths. Booths will be judged on the following criteria.
Most Original
Highest Business Potential
Best Presentation
The Children’s Business Fair is designed to give children the experience of selling a product or service. If a parent is found selling or promoting a child’s product or service, their child’s business will be disqualified from the competition.
Parents of younger children may sit in the booth, but the children should be responsible for set up, customer interaction, and sales.
Parents may help their child fill out the application, but we expect the children to do as much as possible by themselves.