Empowering Youth Through the Mini Market Program
The Youth Mini Market program is designed to equip local youth with essential skills and knowledge through a series of engaging workshops. By participating, young individuals will gain hands-on experience in various aspects of business and entrepreneurship, fostering their confidence and creativity. This initiative not only empowers youth but also strengthens our community by encouraging collaboration and innovation among the next generation of leaders.
Explore The Workshops
The Youth Mini Market Program is a 6-week course designed to teach young people the basics of running their own business. It is set up as 5 separate lessons covering various business fundamentals, each hosted by a local Bay Area-based guest speaker. All lessons will be pre-recorded. The content and workbooks will unlock via a code emailed to you each Saturday morning. It is recommended that the lesson and associated workbooks be submitted by the following Friday.
All 5 workbooks must be completed to graduate the program. The final week (week 6) participants will have the opportunity to submit questions to a team of experienced booth operators who specialize in youth development.
Business Planning and Pricing
Students will be taught how to create a business plan, including core cost modeling. The session will cover the cost of goods sold, profit margin, and pricing principles.
Marketing and Customer Service
With the business officially planned, let’s prepare to go live and bring in customers! This session covers the basics of marketing and best practices, and the importance and challenges of customer service.
Money Management
What to do when you start making money? Here, we will cover the importance of money management, including decisions around savings, re-investment, reserves, and future profits.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Youth Mini Market Program
What is the Youth Mini Market program?
My child is not in 6th grade, can he/she still participate?
We want your student to participate. Our material is aimed at children in upper elementary and all middle/high school grades. You know your student and their capacity. Younger students may need a bit more help from you. Older students will see this as an introduction to concepts they can develop more deeply.
Do I need to sign a waiver/permission slip?
We want to help market your student’s stand. If you want participate in the final market held at the Foster City Fun Run (the stand location is TBC), please sign the permission slip which will be provided. Some students may take the classes and decide to launch another day or would rather market their business another way. We understand this completely. In this case, you would not need to fill out the permission slip.
When does Mini Market start?
The Mini Market program typically begins in March with the Market stands held at the Foster City Fun Run in May. There may be an opportunity for a second program later in the year.
Must students log in on a certain day and time?
This program is designed to allow your student flexibility. Find a time that works best for your student and participate then. Some students will want to watch a webinar multiple times. Other students will watch webinars back to back. The great thing about this program is you can customize it to whatever schedule works for you. Each week the next webinar unlocks for students to access until every unit is complete.
Can I sell …?
We love entrepreneurs! Maybe your student paints? Perhaps they want to start a car washing business? Utilize this coursework to start whichever business works for you. Please note, booths selling food or drink items will not be permitted without appropriate insurance and certification from the Dept of Health provided in advance.
Are there any additional costs?
Mini Market registration covers access to the webinars, downloadable workbooks, and marketing packet. Students will need funds to start their business (think supplies to make the product, etc.). How to find these funds is covered in the class.
Are there any scholarships available?
We are happy to announce that several local businesses have created scholarships for local students. We are currently working with local principals about classrooms of students receiving access. If you would like your business to sponsor a scholarship, please reach out to katy@fostercitychamber.com.
Will students be graded?
As in business, success is measured very differently. We want this fun experience to be a life lesson on how to start a business, create positive customer experiences, manage and save money, and build a brand. There are no grades just an opportunity for learning beyond the classroom.
What materials are required?
To participate in Mini Market, students must have access to the internet and a computer.
When and where is the booth event?
The booth event will be at the finishing line of the Foster City Fun Run, May 10th 2025. Location is TBC but it will be in Foster City. The booth event will run from 8am to noon. While some support with tables may be available, please expect to have your child be responsible for everything to do with set up and clear down. This is their business after all. The event is sustainable and all trash and recycling will be the responsibility of the booth owners.
Is the booth event mandatory?
No. It is optional for any participant that wants to host a booth. You can still complete the course without joining the booth event.
Brought to you by:
Join Mini Market Today
Empower yourself through our Youth Mini Market program! Sign up for our six engaging sessions designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, marketing, or financial literacy, there's something for everyone.