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📣 To all event applicants: Please note that food and consumable sales are not permitted at this event due to local health department regulations and venue safety policies.
CIS Children's Business Fair - Palo Alto, CA
Saturday, May 9, 2026
10:00AM - 1:00PM
Currently accepting applications 🏁
Apply to the fair
About the fair
Be the Boss. Launch Your Business! 🚀 Have an amazing idea? Ever wanted to run your own shop? Now is your chance!
The Acton Children’s Business Fair is a one-day marketplace where you are the CEO. You’ll build your own brand, create a product or service, and open for real customers to hear your story and buy your creations.
At Creative Imagination Schoolhouse, we believe young entrepreneurs are heroes. We provide the platform; you provide the creativity. Whether you’re an inventor, an artist, or a problem-solver, we want to see your business come to life!
At Creative Imagination Schoolhouse, we believe young entrepreneurs are heroes. We provide the platform; you provide the creativity. Whether you’re an inventor, an artist, or a problem-solver, we want to see your business come to life!
Hosted by
Maricar Abaya-Antonio
🗓️ Started hosting in 2021
✅ Identity verified
🚀 Has hosted 4 fairs
Something special is happening — and we'd love for you to be part of it!
At Creative Imagination Schoolhouse, we believe every child has a spark worth celebrating. We create a joyful learning environment where kids follow their curiosity, lead their own adventures, and discover what makes them come alive — all with the guidance of caring, passionate adults by their side.
And now, that spirit is taking center stage.
We're bringing together an incredible community of families, local businesses, and organizations to make the Children's Business Fair a reality — a one-of-a-kind event where young entrepreneurs get to dream big, show off their creativity, and share their ideas with the world. It's going to be magical.
But we can't do it without you.
Whether you're an educator, a mentor, a parent, or simply someone who believes in the power of children's potential, there's a place for you on our team. This is your chance to be part of something meaningful — to stand behind the next generation of innovators and watch them shine.
Come join us. Let's make something unforgettable together.
18 booths participating
Alina’s Garden
Veree’s Art World
And 16 others.
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 kids the opportunity to showcase and sell their very own businesses.
How did the fair get started? Jeff and Laura Sandefer, along with a few other families, created the first fair in Austin, Texas, in 2007 to spark a sense of wonder in their children. It has grown from just seven entrepreneurs to a massive North American movement.
Where should I begin? Start with this Resources Page and Common Q&A Info. It is essential to read the event rules and timeline to familiarize yourself with the requirements and process.
Important Update: Before registering, please review our Q&A Info. We have updated several event rules for this year, and we want to ensure all participants—especially our returning entrepreneurs—are familiar with these changes before signing up!
Important Update: Before registering, please review our Q&A Info. We have updated several event rules for this year, and we want to ensure all participants—especially our returning entrepreneurs—are familiar with these changes before signing up!
How do I apply?
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Submit Online: Complete the online application and include a photos of yourself, business idea and products. For videos and additional photos, please email or share a link to cismv.cbf@gmail.com.
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Review: The CIS Team will review all applications.
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Payment: If selected, you will receive a PayPal invoice. Payment must be made within 24 hours to secure your spot.
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Confirmation: Once paid, you will receive a confirmation email with resources and event details.
Can I apply as a group? Yes! A business can have up to 3 participants. Please submit a single application with information for all members. If children have different business ideas, they must submit separate applications and be considered as a separate booth.
How many businesses are accepted? We accept a maximum of 25 businesses. The deadline to apply is April 9th, 2026, or until all spots are filled.
What are the registration fees?
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CIS Students: $45
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General Registration: $55
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Note: All fees are non-refundable and confirm your booth registration.
What can I sell? The possibilities are endless! Examples include jewelry, handmade candles, pottery, 3D-printed products, pet-sitting services, greeting cards, plants to name a few.
🚫 Note: No food or beverage items may be sold.
What if someone else has the same business idea? We generally let market forces play out. If two businesses sell similar items (like jewelries), we will inform the later applicant so they can decide if they want to stick with their plan or pivot.
What questions are on the application? The application helps you think like a CEO! You’ll be asked about your product/service, pricing, startup costs, marketing plan, and how you will define "success."
How will the fair be set up? Each business will be provided with a 10' x 10' space for their booth. Please note that this year businesses are responsible for bringing their own tables, chairs, and tablecloths. While you are welcome to bring your own tent, it must not infringe on neighboring spaces. Please note: All tents and canopies require prior approval from the event host due to limited capacity.
Will electricity be available?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide electricity to the booths.
Will electricity be available?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide electricity to the booths.
What is the role of parents? This event is for the children. While parents of younger children may sit in the booth, the entrepreneurs should be responsible for setup, customer interaction, and sales. Parents may help with the application, but we expect the child to lead as much of the process as possible.
Are there workshops or orientations? Yes! Confirmed participants will receive resources and an invitation to an Entrepreneurial Workshop Series. There will also be a mandatory Participant Orientation after the application period closes.
How can I support these young entrepreneurs? We welcome donations and sponsors! While fees cover basic costs, sponsorships help us secure the venue and enhance the experience. Sponsors receive name recognition in our promotions and opportunities for sponsor tables. For more information, please click on the link below of email us @ cismv.cbf@gmail.com.
CIS CBF 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
CIS CBF 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
