Jayden Karlee Castillo started her toy business at the age of six, and now, at nine, she has expanded her product range and customer base.
Participating in the Kids Markets event in Millarville, Alta., near Calgary, she sold various items she either makes herself or sources from wholesalers, saving money for a trip and special treats for her parents.
Kids Markets, where children aged five to 17 can showcase and sell their creations, is one of the programs supporting young entrepreneurs in Canada.
Kids Markets in Calgary featured an average of 16 youth-run businesses at each market event since the program began in June.
Various initiatives like BizKids Market in B.C., Kid2Kid in Toronto, and the Children’s Business Fair in Brandon, Man., offer platforms for young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents.
Children’s interest in entrepreneurship has been on the rise, with Lemonade Day Calgary attracting a record number of participants this year, indicating the growing trend.
Social media and online tools have made it easier for kids to explore business concepts and learn essential skills, fostering their entrepreneurial spirit.
Jodi Letkiewicz, an assistant professor of finance at California State University, studies children’s financial knowledge and behavior influenced by parents.
Factors like increased awareness of the cost of living and a desire for financial independence have also contributed to children’s curiosity about entrepreneurship.
Kids’ innate curiosity, creativity, and fearlessness of failure make them ideal candidates for entrepreneurship, allowing them to explore their passions and learn valuable skills.
Atley Ma, who started SodaKid at nine and now covers his university tuition through the business, exemplifies how childhood ventures can lead to significant achievements.
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