Spring Fair 2026
Sunday, April 12, 2026
2:00PM - 5:00PM
Applications are closed
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About the fair
Observe the opportunity for children to launch their very own business!
Children develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace.
This event is sponsored by Acton Academy, and the generous support of our donors and volunteers. We all believe that principled entrepreneurs are heroes and role models for the next generation.
Whether an entrepreneur is famous like Steve Jobs or Sara Blakely or they are one of the thousands of unsung business owners across this country, these are the people who make sacrifices to innovate, create jobs and serve their communities.
Hosted by
Leah Ellis
🗓️ Started hosting in 2024
✅ Identity verified
⭐️ 4.4 (14)
Leah Ellis is the founder and executive director of The Society of Child Entrepreneurs, where she combines her diverse experiences as a teacher, business coach, and entrepreneur to inspire the next generation. Inspired by her daughter’s budding interest in entrepreneurship at just 4 years old, Leah envisioned an organization that empowers young minds to become the next generation of business owners and community leaders.
With a focus on hands-on experiences and community membership, Leah nurtures creativity, innovation, and leadership skills in children, providing them with the tools they need to thrive. Her passion for fostering growth in others is evident in every workshop and mentorship session. As Leah leads this inspiring initiative, she invites others to explore the potential of young entrepreneurs and consider how they can support this transformative journey. The future of our communities relies on the bold ideas and leadership of our youth—together, we can help them flourish.
With a focus on hands-on experiences and community membership, Leah nurtures creativity, innovation, and leadership skills in children, providing them with the tools they need to thrive. Her passion for fostering growth in others is evident in every workshop and mentorship session. As Leah leads this inspiring initiative, she invites others to explore the potential of young entrepreneurs and consider how they can support this transformative journey. The future of our communities relies on the bold ideas and leadership of our youth—together, we can help them flourish.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Acton Children’s Business Fair?
The Acton Children’s Business Fair inspires children to discover their inner entrepreneur. As the largest entrepreneurship event for children in North America, this one-day market gives young innovators the opportunity to showcase their very own businesses — everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats and creative services.
How many businesses will you accept?
We will accept up to 16 businesses for this event. Spots fill quickly, so apply early to secure your booth!
How do I apply? Can I apply as part of a group?
Applications must be submitted online.
Please submit one application per business.
If children are working as a team, only one application should be submitted — but include the names and ages of each participant (maximum of 3 participants per business).
If children are working as a team, only one application should be submitted — but include the names and ages of each participant (maximum of 3 participants per business).
What if someone else has the same business idea?
No problem! Two cupcake or slime stands? That’s part of the fun. We let market forces play out naturally.
How will the fair be set up?
The fair will be an indoor event featuring individual booths.
Each child or team will receive:
Each child or team will receive:
- One 8-foot table
- One chair per applicant
Tablecloths will not be provided, and we cannot accommodate electricity.
Will electricity be available?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide electricity for booths.
What are the rules?
This event is designed to give children the real-world experience of entrepreneurship — creating a product, setting prices, engaging customers, and making sales.
- Parents of children over age 7 are not allowed in booths during the fair. They’re welcome to relax in the Parent Corner or explore downtown while their young entrepreneurs shine.
- Parents of younger children may stay nearby but should allow the kids to handle setup, customer interaction, and sales on their own.
- Parents may help complete the application but should encourage children to take the lead in planning their business.
What are the event details?
Date: April 12, 2026
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Setup: 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Tear Down: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Prizes Announced: Approximately 4:45 PM
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/19b5D5vgRL/
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Setup: 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Tear Down: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Prizes Announced: Approximately 4:45 PM
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/19b5D5vgRL/
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 first fair had just seven entrepreneurs and 25 attendees. Today, Acton Fairs have expanded worldwide.
