Young entrepreneurs from Detroit are developing business skills at a unique pop-up shop event, “Youth Takeover Popup Shop”, at the Bliss Event Center. Seventy five vendors between the ages of 3 and 18 are presenting a variety of products, from handmade crafts to baked goods. The event’s goal is to foster an entrepreneurial spirit among students and offer them practical experience in sales and finance.
Supported by industry experts and volunteers, these young participants gain operational business insights. A platform for networking is also provided, encouraging collaboration. Parents and guardians reflect favorably on the safe and stimulating environment which nurtures the entrepreneurial and creative skills of their children.
Among the participants is 5-year-old Luna Stinson, creator of the body butters ‘Rainbow Dust’ and ‘Sweet Unicorn’, priced at $10 each. Luna’s entrepreneurial journey is guided by her mother, Farrah Driver, herself a successful entrepreneur.
Detroit’s youthful entrepreneurs at pop-up shop
These pop-up events provide essential exposure for start-ups like Luna’s.
Six-year-old sisters Aaryn McCormick and A’Serah Walls, proprietors of a charm bracelet business, use their profits towards toys, clothes, and savings. They have completed over 200 sales at five past pop-up events. The determination and effort they’ve put into growing their business operation, backed by their mother’s support, has significantly boosted their sales.
The event is initiated by Lisa Carter, renowned as the “Queen of Pop Ups”. The event enables aspiring entrepreneurs to present their ideas to industry experts and receive valuable feedback. Attendees are given hands-on entrepreneurial learning experience. The aim is not only to provide a learning platform, but also to cultivate lasting relationships among like-minded peers.
Looking at the positive response, Lisa Carter may consider organizing more such events to nurture future entrepreneurs. The motive is to offer a platform where they can shine and learn, which could potentially result in a wave of innovative business ventures.
