Step aside, adults. The amazing GenAlpha are about to ambush your business affairs. The first ever Children’s Entrepreneurial Market of Robertson County is on July 8 at the Robertson County FairGrounds from 8 am to 12 pm.

This monumental market is promised to be brimming with marvelous merchandise manufactured by mini masters! 

Here’s what you need to know:

The Children’s Entrepreneurial Markets started in Utah five years ago and have since spread to 6 other states. So far this year, Tennessee has hosted markets in Clarksville, Martin, Jackson, Columbia and Mt. Juliet. The vendors are required to be 5-16 years old, but older (and younger) siblings can help out too. The market will coincide with the traditional Robertson County Farmers Market that day to ensure a good amount of foot traffic. The young entrepreneurs are encouraged to bring whatever they think they can sell! 

“We have seen it all,” said Amanda Mollenhour, Nashville Manager for Children’s Entrepreneurial Markets. “There’s a lot of lemonade and crafty things like crocheted stuffed animals, swords made with pool noodles. The kids are so creative!” 

The booth fees for the event are $20—a fraction of the typical cost for a market event—giving the pint sized promoters a real opportunity to prosper.

“There’s kids that are professionals at their crafts, and some are just trying out a new thing and we welcome both,” Amanda said.

For interested kiddos, there is a full video series on the Children’s Entrepreneurial Market website to help them get organized and learn how to market their products. 

Amanda, who is also a homeschooling mother of three, appreciates the experience and life lessons this opportunity presents to her children. “For my own kids, I want them to be independent and free thinkers,” she said. “Entrepenurialship teaches them so many skills, character building, creativity, and problem solving.”

Through the event, the kids also get a lot of exposure to money handling, direct sales, and managing a business plan.The Robertson County market is expected to boast 20-30 booths this year. While family businesses are also welcome at the event, parents are encouraged to let their kids take the lead in all aspects of the day. 

Start saving up your pennies and spend the morning on July 8 encouraging these kids in their entrepreneurial endeavors! 

Don’t worry, if you can’t make this market, there are several others throughout Tennessee through the end of the summer and into early fall. For more information or to register visit  Children's Entrepreneur Market.