ESTHER SHORT — Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver recently celebrated the success of its highly anticipated Junior Market event, where over 300 talented young entrepreneurs, 6-16 years old, came together to showcase their handmade and homegrown products. The event, brought to the community by the Greater Vancouver Chamber and presented by Main Squeeze OnPoint Community Credit Union, captivated thousands of farmers market customers with an array of creative and innovative offerings, highlighting the talent and potential of the youth in Southwest Washington. This year’s Junior Market brought $40,000 in sales that went directly into the pockets of the young CEOs.
From artwork, bookmarks, bird houses, keychains, and meticulously crafted jewelry to candles, bath bombs, organically grown produce, and more, the junior vendors took over Esther Short Park to present a range of products, each embodying the passion and dedication of its young creator. Visitors had the opportunity to explore the market booths, engage with the young entrepreneurs and witness firsthand the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within our community. Additionally, each junior vendor participated in a business pitch contest, sponsored by Palm Beach Tan, that give them a real-world experience and allowed them to perfect and amplify their ideas, network with local business owners, and get expert guidance and mentorship.
From over 175 booths, the business Gnomie’s Garden Treasures, managed by McKinley and Brendan Murphy, won this contest. Raffles took place throughout the day, which was full of family entertainment and local shopping.
After a successful day of sales, the kidpreneurs calculated and submitted their business results to the Greater Vancouver Chamber for an opportunity to win a tablet from Lemonade Day National. By turning in their business results, the kids were also eligible to become the Vancouver Youth Entrepreneur of the Year.
The Junior Market served as a unique platform for budding entrepreneurs to display and test their entrepreneurial skills in a profitable location.
