Steamboat Children's Business Fair
Saturday, July 18, 2026
9:00AM - 12:30PM
Currently accepting applications π
Apply to the fair
About the fair
The 2026 Steamboat Kids Business Fair is filling up fast β spots are capped at 60 booths!
Join us as Steamboat's young entrepreneurs launch their own startup businesses. They'll develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and open for customers at our one-day marketplace.Β
Now in its 4th year, the Fair will be held at Little Toots Park on July 18, 2026 from 9:00 AM β 12:30 PM. Come support the next generation of business owners right here in Steamboat!
Hosted by
Bryce Pahula
ποΈ Started hosting in 2022
β Identity verified
βοΈ 5.0 (7)
25 booths participating
Emerald Mountain Art
EE's Calming Corner
And 23 others.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Steamboat Children's Business Fair? The Steamboat Children's Business Fair inspires kids to discover their inner entrepreneur. Based on the largest entrepreneurship event for children in North America, this one-day marketplace gives kids the opportunity to launch and run their very own businesses β from concept to customer.
How many booths are available? The fair is capped at 60 booths. Spots fill up fast, so we encourage families to apply early!
How do I apply? Can I apply as part of a group? Applications must be submitted online. Please submit one application per business. Kids working together should submit a single application listing each child's information. Groups are limited to 3 participants per business.
A $10 participation fee is due when you arrive to set up your booth.
What's on the application? The application helps young entrepreneurs think through the key elements of their business:
- What product or service do you plan to sell?
- What price will you charge? How much will each item cost you to make?
- How will you cover your startup costs β and if someone helps you, how will you pay them back?
- How will you market your business before the fair?
- How will you measure success at the end of the day?
What if another business has the same idea? Two lemonade stands? No problem β we generally let market forces play out! That said, if a later applicant has a very similar idea to an earlier one, we'll give them a heads up so they can decide whether to differentiate or proceed as-is.
How will the fair be set up? The fair is an outdoor event at Little Toots Park. Each business is responsible for bringing everything they need, including a table, chairs, and a shade canopy if desired. Please plan accordingly β electricity is not available at any booth.
What are the rules for parents? This event is designed to give kids the full experience of running a business. To keep it authentic:
- Children are responsible for setup, customer interactions, and sales. Parents found selling or promoting on a child's behalf will result in disqualification from judging.
- Parents of younger children may sit in the booth, but the children should take the lead.
- Parents may help with the application, but we encourage kids to do as much as possible on their own.
Remember β it's their day to shine!
How can local businesses get involved? Sponsoring the Steamboat Kids Business Fair is a great way to invest in the next generation of entrepreneurs and show your support for our community. Sponsors receive recognition at the event and on our website.
To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to us at childrensbizfair@gmail.com β we'd love to have you involved!
Where did this event come from? The Steamboat Children's Business Fair is inspired by the Acton Children's Business Fair, founded in Austin, Texas in 2007 by Jeff and Laura Sandefer. What started with 7 young entrepreneurs has grown to over 115 participants and 1,500 attendees in Austin alone. We're proud to bring that same entrepreneurial spirit to Steamboat Springs!
