Local youth will take centre stage this summer as the Airdrie Children’s Business Fair returns for its fourth year. The annual marketplace happens on August 16 from 1 to 4 pm at the Town and Country Centre and gives local children between the ages of six and 14 the opportunity to launch their own startup businesses and share them with the community.
Organized by Khanyisa Communications, the event provides a fun and practical introduction to the world of business. Whether it’s handmade crafts, baked goods, original artwork, or creative services, every booth is entirely kid-run and kid-created.
Chipo Dube, founder and director of Khanyisa Communications, serves as the organizer for the Airdrie Children’s Business Fair. Dube explained that creating this platform for youth has been a long-standing goal.
“It’s something I have always wanted to do,” says Dube.
“As an entrepreneur myself, I would like to help the younger generation get an early start in learning and understanding business and marketing principles.”
Kids are guided through important concepts like branding, product development, pricing, budgeting, and marketing. They even get to build their own booths and pitch their ideas directly to customers. Branded as the largest entrepreneurship event for children in North America, the fair hosts up to 30 booths, giving participants the chance to test their ideas and gain confidence in a supportive environment.
Participants are encouraged to think through essential business questions, including: What will I sell? How much will it cost me to make? What price should I charge? How will I market my business? How will I define success?
The benefits for the young participants go far beyond basic sales experience. Dube noted that key advantages for children taking part include “interaction with the community, brand awareness for the business, participant recognition, and category prizes.”
The event also offers substantial value to the surrounding community, serving as both a gathering space and a chance for corporate involvement.
“It’s a social event that gives the community a platform to interact with young innovative people,” says Dube.
“It is also a social responsibility opportunity for businesses wishing to support through sponsorships.”
Over the years, Airdrie residents have shown tremendous support for the fair, turning out in large numbers to shop, encourage, and inspire the next generation of business leaders. Dube expressed deep appreciation for the city’s ongoing enthusiasm for the initiative.
“This is an amazing event that has been received well by the community,” adds Dube.
“I would like to thank everyone that continues to support.”
Whether you’re a parent, local business owner, or simply curious about the future of entrepreneurship in Airdrie, this event promises fun, inspiration, and innovation for all ages.
Learn more at childrensbusinessfair.org/airdrie-alberta.
