KENNEWICK, Wash. – Young entrepreneurs had the chance to showcase their talents at the Kids Market held at the Hub of Kennewick. A dozen small businesses set up shop for the community to explore.
The event highlighted the creativity of future business leaders. From lemonade to plants, a variety of products were on display for visitors to enjoy.
Samantha Schuster, Executive Director of the Hub, emphasized the importance of this event.
“Children are given the opportunity to showcase their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit,” she said. “It’s a fantastic way for kids to learn valuable skills such as pricing, marketing, and customer service in a safe and fun environment.”
Among the participants were 12-year-old Ahziah Mallery and his 10-year-old sister Ahzleah. Ahziah sold plants he assembled, while Ahzleah offered Play-Doh kits and slime. They shared their excitement about the day.
“I like making things to sell and see how much money I can make,” Ahziah said. Ahzleah added, “I got to make Play-Doh and slime and I thought that was fun.”
Schuster noted the broader impact of supporting local businesses.
“You’re helping pay someone’s rent. You’re helping put food on their table, buying their kids school clothes, paying their bills. You’re supporting their livelihood,” she stated.
The Hub, which opened in 2023, hosts this event twice a year. Schuster expressed a desire to expand the Kids Market to four times a year to increase awareness of young entrepreneurs’ small businesses.
