FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – You’re never too young – downtown Fort Wayne will be full of entrepreneurs ready to enter the world of business ownership.
It’s all part of a partnership between Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and the Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana Farmers Market. Entrepreneurs 21 and under, including students, will sell their products at the YLNI Farmers Marker on Berry Street.
Officials from Junior Achievement say the event gives young people the opportunity to gain experience in running a business and promoting their products. Items for sale include beaded jewelry, artwork, clothing, baked goods, and more.
This is the third year of this event. Due to COVID, the event was postponed until 2020. It returned last year, but for the first time at the YLNI Farmers Market. Junior Achievement’s Karen Cooper says she’s excited to be back and because of the growth they’ve seen.
“Last year we had about 20 kids, this year we’re doubling that, so we’re just at capacity and that venue and the clients that are already established will be super exciting for these kids, to give them some exposure,” Cooper said.
Cooper explained the importance of supporting these young business owners.
“Thirty years from now, these kids will be innovative solutions to complex problems happening in our world,” Cooper said, “and they’ll be developing businesses and products and new ways of working in the community.”
The JA Young Entrepreneur Marketplace event will be held on Saturday, July 16th from 9am to 1pm at the YLNI Farmers Market on Berry Street. Cooper says credit will be available to pay for items, but suggests bringing cash. More information can be found here.
