Young entrepreneurs from the community will bring their creative ideas to life at the fifth annual Acton Kennebunkport Children’s Business Fair. The fair is presented by Acton Academy Kennebunkport and will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kennebunkport Consolidated School. The school is located at 25 School Street, Kennebunkport.

The fifth annual Acton Kennebunkport Children’s Business Fair, hosted by Acton Academy Kennebunkport, is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 23 at Consolidated School. Contributed

According to a news release the fair is part of a global movement to empower young people and the Acton Children’s Business Fair has grown to over 3,000 fairs worldwide, helping more than 70,000 young entrepreneurs across 643 cities in 26 countries explore their entrepreneurial spirit. The fairs foster creativity, problem-solving, and real-world business skills by providing a platform for children to create and manage their own small businesses.

Participants handle every aspect of running a business, from product design and pricing to marketing and customer service. At the fair, children set up booths to sell products or services they’ve created, developing practical skills and gaining confidence in their ideas. By repaying start-up “loans” from their earnings, participants experience accountability and a real sense of accomplishment.

Since its launch in 2020, the Acton Kennebunkport Children’s Business Fair has attracted growing numbers of families and community members who support the young business owners. This year’s fair is set to be the largest yet, with over 30 booths already registered, showcasing the innovation and creativity of young entrepreneurs in our community.

Any child younger than 18 who can independently manage their booth is welcome to join. The fair is open to all children in the community, not just Acton Academy students, offering an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to share their creativity, develop life skills, make connections, and learn from hands-on experience.

“We wanted to create an experience that would give children a glimpse into the entrepreneurial world, where they can learn not just business skills but resilience and creativity,” said Jeff Sandefer, co-founder of Acton Academy and creator of the Children’s Business Fair concept. Contributed

“This event is a great way to support the next generation of innovators and leaders,” said Kori Stack, the event organizer, in an email. “We want to create a space where children can explore their interests, connect with others, and experience the hard work and rewards that come with running a business.”

Jeff Sandefer, co-founder of Acton Academy and creator of the Children’s Business Fair concept, wrote, “We wanted to create an experience that would give children a glimpse into the entrepreneurial world, where they can learn not just business skills but resilience and creativity. It’s been amazing to see the growth and confidence that emerge when young people take ownership of their ideas and see them succeed.”

Acton Academy invites everyone — children, adults, families, and local businesses — to attend the fair, explore the various booths, and celebrate the accomplishments of the community’s young entrepreneurs.

For more information or to apply for a booth, visit www.childrensbusinessfair.org.

Primary sponsors of the event are Lighthouse Realty, Integrated Financial Partners, Weirs GMC, Roger
Berube Builders, and the Wood Family.