Nonprofit wants to empower children through entrepreneurial experiences

The Children’s Entrepreneur Market, a trailblazing nonprofit initiative committed to empowering children through entrepreneurial experiences, is coming to Southwest Washington, with the first of several local markets taking place this weekend.

Launched in 2017 in Utah, the Children’s Entrepreneur Market is now in 25 states and has given more than 25,000 children an opportunity to try their hand at business.

“We believe the Children’s Entrepreneur Market can positively influence a lot of young lives,” said Lynee Fife, director of the program. “The principles of innovation, leadership, and hard work are lessons that will stay with them throughout their lives.”

Kara Jean, a mother of three from Hockinson, is the new market manager for Washington. The local sector of the CEM will have seven events, one this weekend, and the rest throughout spring, summer, and fall.

The market staff specializes in identifying and securing venues that bring large numbers of a diverse community together where hundreds of authentic interactions are possible.

Children are offered additional support including a video course on how to set up their business, scholarships for growth, and a blog series to share lessons and experiences, from children, for children.

This year’s workshops are:

April 27 and 28 at the Clark County Fairgrounds during the Home and Garden Idea Fair

June 1 in Yacolt at Pomeroy Farm Days

June 13 in La Center at La Center Farmers Market

July 26 in Woodland at Woodland Farmers Market

Aug. 3 in Ridgefield at Ridgefield Day of Festivals

Oct. 5 in Ridgefield at the 25th anniversary of the BirdFest and Bluegrass Festival

To learn more about CEM or to sign up, go here: https://bit.ly/3P1e7EA