KidBiz Training Session Transforms Children into Young Entrepreneurs

This weekend, dozens of children will forgo their Saturday morning cartoons in exchange for an introduction to entrepreneurialism. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Buffalo State is hosting its “Get Ready for KidBiz” training session on Saturday, May 19, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in Bulger Communication Center East. The training session will prepare children to take part in the KidBiz Market this summer. 

KidBiz Market was started by the SBDC in 1996 to teach children the basics of becoming entrepreneurs. Each year, the program draws more than 100 third- through sixth-graders. The children learn the ins-and-outs of starting their own businesses as they sell products of their choice during the Elmwood-Bidwell Farmer’s Market.

At the “Get Ready for KidBiz” training session, children and their parent or guardian will learn about customer service, product presentation, pricing, the art of selling, and financing for their small businesses. There will also be a panel of KidBiz Experts, consisting of children who participated in the KidBiz Market last year, who will talk about their experience and answer any questions.

The training session is free and all are welcome to attend. To be eligible, children must have permission from a parent or guardian, and be in third, fourth, fifth, or sixth grade. After the training session, the kids receive a KidBiz Startup Kit and KidBiz Certificate.

The KidBiz Market is scheduled for Saturdays, June 16, July 7, and August 4 at the Elmwood-Bidwell Farmer’s Market. To sell a product at the KidBiz Market, children must provide their own table and are charged a $2 space fee.  Among the items sold are jewelry, baked goods, and old toys. Some children offer musical performances as well.

For more information, or if you are unable to attend the “Get Ready for KidBiz” training session, contact Andrea Lizak, business adviser at the Small Business Development Center, (716) 878-4030.