How did the Acton Children’s Business Fair get started?
Jeff and Laura Sandefer and a few other families wanted to spark a sense of wonder and entrepreneurship in their children so they created the first Acton Children’s Business Fair in Austin, Texas, in 2007. That year, there were seven entrepreneurs and around 25 attendees. Now, there are over 115 entrepreneurs and 1,500 attendees at the Acton Children's Business Fair in Austin.
What are the rules?
This event is designed to give children the experience of selling a product or service. Parents of younger children may sit in the booth, but the child should be responsible for set up, customer interaction, and sales.
Our fair is designed to give children the full experience of promoting, marketing, and communication of their own products. While it’s perfectly fine to correct your child privately if they make a mistake, but parents should never engage with customers at all. The purpose of the fair is to encourage children to develop real-world business and communication skills.
If a parent is seen selling or promoting at their child's booth, that child will not be eligible to participate in future business fairs. This ensures the event remains fair and true to its mission for all participants.
What is The Arkansas Acton Children’s Business Fair?
The Children’s Business Fair is the largest entrepreneurship event for kids in North America, a one-day marketplace operated by young business owners aged 6-18 to showcase their talent and business, sell in an authentic environment and earn their own money.
How many businesses will you accept?
We will accept up to 30 businesses.
Who Can Participate?
Kids aged 6–18 with a creative idea or business plan. You can also participate as a youth ambassador. You do not have to be a business. You can earn a stipend by participating as an ambassador.
What Do They Need?
A product or service to sell.
A booth setup (tables and chairs) tent(weather permitting)
Passion and creativity!
Why Join?
Earn real money and gain hands-on experience.
Save for your future and education.
Interact with customers and other kid entrepreneurs. Build confidence and learn to speak about products.
Network with local business owners and find mentors.
What if someone else has the same business idea?
Two or Three of the same businesses is ok. It’s about the experience to run your own business, it’s not all about the money. Children can sell their products or accept donations.
How will the fair be set up?
Each business will be provided a 6 or 8-foot table and 1-2 chairs. Children will receive a signed certificate of appreciation from the Mayor, Host Site and Program Director. Parents must provide food and drinks for their child.
Will electricity be available?
Yes-indoor events
No-outdoor events
Is the participant required to wear the T-shirt?
Yes, your child is required to wear The Arkansas Acton Children’s Business Shirt which is an additional charge. All vendor fair events booked by our organization the shirt must be worn.
Why is a T-Shirt Required for the Event?
T-shirt serves as a uniform for the program creating a sense of unity and identity among the attendees. It also helps organizers and staff easily identify participants during the event, ensuring smooth coordination, assistance, and allow for our judges and media to spot your entrepreneurs easily and helps encourage our sponsors to get the spotlight.
How can I sponsor your event?
Ways to support?
We are a verified 501c3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible.
Zeffy Donation Link
Donate Post the kids business pictures, comment, leave a review and share on
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