Now in its third year, Neepawa’s Children’s Business Fair has given dozens of young entrepreneurs the chance to take on the challenge of running their own businesses—if only for a day. Children aged 6 to 15 plan and operate their ventures, which range from dog walking to jewellery-making to baked goods. They are responsible for every aspect of their business, from budgeting and marketing to producing their products, with adult help—especially from parents—kept to a minimum.

“We want the kids to have that sense of accomplishment when it’s all over,” says organizer Marilyn Crewe, Economic Development Officer for Neepawa. “That ‘I decided to do this, I did the work, and I have money in my pocket.’”

Beyond teaching time management, financial literacy, and communication skills, Crewe notes that the event benefits the community as a whole. Much like the town’s annual entrepreneurship event, What’s The Big Idea?, the fair equips participants with the tools to succeed while enriching the community with fresh ideas and small businesses. While many young people only operate their business for the day of the fair, some expand to local seasonal markets, farmers’ markets, or continue selling year-round.

The fair has grown steadily each year, with some students returning annually—sometimes with the same business, sometimes with new or expanded ideas. Among them is Laureen Cabrera, who has participated since the first event. Each year, she has built on her artistic skills to grow her business.

This year, Cabrera added jewellery stands to better display her work and introduced new items such as keychains. She reinvests most of her profits into supplies so she can create more art and crafts. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a career in either the arts or business.

Her advice to newcomers: don’t feel pressured to start big. “You can do just one thing that you like or are good at, and you can learn from other participants about skills like displaying products or attracting customers,” she says.

This year’s Children’s Business Fair will take place at the Yellowhead Centre on Thursday, August 14, from 3 to 6 p.m.