At the Collierville Children’s Business Fair, something incredible happens when kids take the lead. They move from dreaming about ideas to bringing them to life, setting prices, designing displays, talking to customers, and managing sales.
Hosted by Mid-South Gifted Academy, this one-day marketplace gives young entrepreneurs ages 6–17 the chance to launch their very own businesses and sell their creations to the community. And while the products are always impressive, from homemade candles to baked goods, jewelry, and original art, the real magic happens in the lessons kids take away.
Last year’s fair was an incredible success, with hundreds of shoppers supporting dozens of young entrepreneurs. Read more about the event’s success here.
Here are five life lessons children learn when they open up shop at the Collierville Children’s Business Fair:
1. Confidence Comes from Doing
There’s nothing quite like seeing a child light up after making their first sale.
At the fair, kids quickly realize that their ideas have value and that they have value. Each interaction builds self-confidence and communication skills that will carry over into every part of life.
“It’s amazing to watch their confidence grow in just a few hours! These young business owners start the day nervous and end the day feeling unstoppable.”
2. Creativity Is a Superpower
From brainstorming a product idea to naming their business and designing signage, every step encourages creative problem-solving. You can see this high school student sells origami earrings with her business, Earigami!
Kids learn to think outside the box, adapt when something doesn’t go as planned, and celebrate their unique way of seeing the world.
From brainstorming a product idea to naming their business and designing signage, every step encourages creative problem-solving. Kids learn to think outside the box, adapt when something doesn’t go as planned, and celebrate their unique way of seeing the world.
3. Responsibility Brings Freedom
Running a business, even for one day, means taking ownership. Kids learn to plan ahead, manage materials, track costs, and make change for customers. With guidance from parents, they experience the satisfaction that comes from following through and seeing results.
4. Perseverance Pays Off
Not every sale happens instantly, and not every idea works perfectly. But that’s part of the journey. Young entrepreneurs learn to stay positive, refine their pitch, and keep going. They discover that success often comes from persistence, a lesson far more valuable than profit.
5. Community Matters
Perhaps the most heartwarming part of the day is seeing the community show up. Hundreds of shoppers come out to support these local kid-owned businesses.
Children learn that entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money; it’s also about connection, gratitude, and giving back.
Join the Next Generation of Young Entrepreneurs
The next Collierville Children’s Business Fair will be held on Sunday, November 16 from 1–4 PM at Mid-South Gifted Academy, just off the Town Square in Collierville.
Booth spaces are free (only a $25 fee if you need electricity, and those spaces are limited).
Open to kids ages 6–17.
The application deadline is November 10, and only a handful of booth spaces remain!
Ready to help your child take the first step toward innovation, confidence, and lifelong skills?
👉 Apply for a booth today!
Curious what last year’s fair looked like? Check out highlights from our previous event.