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.

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.

Start with this Resources Page and Common Q&A Info (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fiwMiuWwEAAcpuZOP8b9r5Ob2NXxDRxVYxvDrDBtbdY/edit?usp=sharing). 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 (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fiwMiuWwEAAcpuZOP8b9r5Ob2NXxDRxVYxvDrDBtbdY/edit?usp=sharing). 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!

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.
Review: The CIS Team will review all applications.
Payment: If selected, you will receive a PayPal invoice. Payment must be made within 24 hours to secure your spot.
Confirmation: Once paid, you will receive a confirmation email with resources and event details.

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.

We accept a maximum of 25 businesses. The deadline to apply is April 9th, 2026, or until all spots are filled.

$45
General Registration: $55
Note: All fees are non-refundable after you submit and confirm your booth registration with payment.

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.

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.

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."

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 space capacity and site approval.
Will electricity be available?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide electricity to the booths.

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.

Yes! Confirmed participants will receive resources and an invitation to an Entrepreneurial Workshop Series. (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdmhIDV8aJpvWOHOccJawCghil8lGpjCjXaHDv1hxAgJpcduA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=100943434230133374686)All workshops are open to everyone (event .participant or non-event participant).
There will also be a mandatory Participant Orientation after the application period closes.

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 at cismv.cbf@gmail.com.
CIS CBF 2027 Sponsorship Opportunities (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdsi2bSVjP7fvveFeWQq0clWNWTeXtZCZQ3fFY7GnsXdYJuXQ/viewform?usp=header)CIS CBF Children’s Business Fair 2027: Volunteer Sign-Up (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScn9C6ocGi2pMPaC9h_sQ8Jwqfx4TNH6UeeOjtXCywZF0H4Bg/viewform?usp=header)