In America, a wave of young entrepreneurs is making a big impact. These young minds are not waiting to grow up to chase their dreams. Instead, they are turning their ideas into successful businesses right now. From creating innovative products to solving real-world problems, these young entrepreneurs are showing that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference.
Key Takeaways
- Gabby Goodwin is changing the hair care industry with her unique hair accessories for young girls.
- Brandon and Sebastian Martinez started a successful sock business and are giving back to their community.
- Moziah Bridges founded a bow tie company and has appeared in the media to promote his brand.
- Hart Main began making candles and turned it into a thriving business while giving back to the community.
- Ryan Hickman started a recycling company to help the environment and educate others about recycling.
Gabby Goodwin: Revolutionizing Hair Care for Young Girls
The Inspiration Behind Gabby Bows
When I was just seven years old, I noticed a problem with my hair barrettes. They kept slipping out and getting lost. My mom and I decided to create a solution. Together, we designed the Double-Faced Double Snap Barrette, which stays put no matter how much you move. This was the beginning of Gabby Bows.
Challenges and Triumphs in the Hair Care Industry
Starting a business at a young age wasn’t easy. We faced many challenges, from getting the design right to finding the right materials. But we didn’t give up. Our hard work paid off when we finally patented our design and started selling Gabby Bows. Today, our products are available online and in stores.
Future Plans for Gabby Bows
Looking ahead, I have big plans for Gabby Bows. I want to expand our product line and reach even more customers. We’re also working on new hair care products to make life easier for moms and their daughters. The future is bright, and I’m excited to see where Gabby Bows will go next.
Brandon and Sebastian Martinez: The Sock Entrepreneurs
How Are You Kidding Started
Brothers Brandon and Sebastian Martinez turned their love for funky, colorful socks into a thriving business called Are You Kidding. They started designing their own sock patterns with markers and crayons when they were just preteens. Their goal was to elevate people’s style while also supporting various charitable causes. In 2014, they officially launched their business and began selling their unique socks.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
One of the most inspiring aspects of Are You Kidding is its commitment to philanthropy. The brothers have partnered with numerous charities, including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Amigos for Kids. They even started a "Kids Helping Kids" initiative, working with schools across the United States to provide socks and other tools for school fundraisers. Proceeds from their charity collections go to nonprofits, making a significant impact on the community.
Expanding the Business Beyond Socks
Brandon and Sebastian are not stopping at socks. They have plans to expand their product line and reach even more customers. Their innovative approach and dedication to problem-solving have set them apart in the industry. Focusing on narrow markets and innovative cash management strategies have been key to their success. The future looks bright for these young entrepreneurs as they continue to grow and evolve their business.
Moziah Bridges: The Bow Tie Mogul
Founding Mo’s Bows at a Young Age
When I was just nine years old, I couldn’t find a bow tie that matched my style. So, I decided to make my own. With my grandmother’s help, I learned to sew and started creating colorful bow ties from leftover fabric. That’s how Mo’s Bows was born. Starting a business at such a young age was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding.
Partnerships and Media Appearances
Over the years, Mo’s Bows has grown significantly. I’ve had the opportunity to appear on "Shark Tank" and even gifted a custom-made tie to then-President Barack Obama. My products are now sold in major stores like Cole Haan, Bloomingdale’s, and Neiman Marcus. These partnerships have helped me reach a wider audience and establish my brand.
Vision for the Future of Mo’s Bows
Looking ahead, I have big plans for Mo’s Bows. I want to expand our product line to include more accessories and apparel. My goal is to continue innovating and providing stylish options for people who care about their appearance. I also plan to keep giving back to the community through initiatives like the Go Mo Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, which has already sent over 50 kids to summer camp.
Hart Main: From Candle Maker to Business Owner
The Birth of ManCans
When I was 13, I came up with the idea for manly scented candles after teasing my sister about the girly ones she was selling for a school fundraiser. It wasn’t until I wanted to buy a $1,500 bike that I thought seriously about my joke. My parents and I put in a little money to start the business, and we worked together to create the candles, which we named ManCans.
Navigating the Market as a Teen Entrepreneur
Starting a business as a teenager wasn’t easy. We had to figure out how to make the candles, package them, and sell them. We decided to use soup cans for the candles, which gave them a unique look. The scents, like Campfire, Bacon, and Fresh Cut Grass, were designed to be simple and masculine. ManCans are now sold in every state, and our sales have gone over six figures each year.
Social Responsibility and Giving Back
Giving back to the community is important to me. Part of each sale goes to soup kitchens in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Michigan. Our candles are handmade by people with developmental challenges at the Beaver Creek Candle Company in Lisbon, Ohio. This way, we not only make great candles but also help others in need.
Ryan Hickman: Environmental Stewardship Through Recycling
The Genesis of Ryan’s Recycling Company
When I was just three years old, I noticed something that really bothered me: discarded bottles and cans lying around. I decided to do something about it. I started by collecting my family’s recyclables and took them to the local recycling center with my dad. We got $5 for our haul, and that small reward inspired me to do more. Soon, I was going door-to-door in my neighborhood with a bag attached to my bike, collecting recyclables from my neighbors. By the time I was seven, I had my own business, Ryan’s Recycling Company.
Educational Outreach and Advocacy
Over the years, I’ve been recognized by many news organizations, including CNN Kid Wonder in 2017. I’ve also appeared on national TV shows like "Ellen" and "Today," where I talked about my mission. On my website, I sell T-shirts with the message, "Make the Sea Trash Free." All profits from selling my merchandise and recycling go to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. By April 2022, we had raised more than $14,000 and helped recycle 1.5 million cans and bottles.
Awards and Recognition
I’ve also started a new nonprofit called Project 3R. Its mission is to educate people about the importance of recycling and to organize community clean-up efforts. If a kid like me can make a difference, anyone can, too. When we all do just a little bit, it adds up to a huge difference. Thanks for helping me clean up our planet.
Kamaria Warren: Empowering Through Stationery
The Creation of Brown Girls’ Stationery
When I was seven, my mom and I went shopping for birthday invitations. We couldn’t find any that represented Brown and Black girls. This gap in the market inspired us to create Brown Girls’ Stationery. We started making party and school supplies, stationery, vegan purses, and accessories for girls. Most of our products feature cheerful illustrations of Black or Brown girls. We even sell dolls!
Overcoming Market Challenges
Starting a business wasn’t easy. We faced many challenges, from finding the right materials to getting our products noticed. But we didn’t give up. We sell our products on Shopify, Faire Marketplace, wholesale, and at local events. On average, we sell around 10,000 notebooks, 2,500 notepads, and 1,500 backpacks each year. Seeing other girls wear my stuff and being proud of who they are keeps me motivated.
Future Endeavors and Product Lines
Looking ahead, we have big plans. We want to expand our product lines and reach even more girls. Our goal is to make every Brown girl feel special and represented. We believe that everyone has the ability to change the world, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for Brown Girls’ Stationery.
Lily Born: Innovating for Accessibility
The Inspiration Behind the Kangaroo Cup
When I was just eight years old, I noticed my grandfather, who had Parkinson’s disease, often spilled his drinks. This inspired me to create a solution. I designed a three-legged cup, known as the Kangaroo Cup, that wouldn’t tip over easily. My dad and I traveled to JingDeZhen, China, to refine the design and find a manufacturer. We even got financial support from Kickstarter and Indiegogo to bring the product to life.
Challenges in Product Development
Creating the Kangaroo Cup wasn’t easy. We faced many challenges, from perfecting the design to finding the right materials. But we didn’t give up. We kept working until we had a product that was both functional and affordable. Innovation was key to overcoming these obstacles.
Impact on the Lives of People with Disabilities
The Kangaroo Cup has made a big difference in the lives of people with disabilities. It helps them drink without worrying about spills. This simple invention has improved the quality of life for many, showing that even small changes can have a huge impact. If a kid like me can make a difference, anyone can, too.
The best way to deal with a spill is to avoid it. That’s what I had in mind when I created the Kangaroo Cup.
Mikey Wren: The Young Author and Entrepreneur
Writing and Publishing at a Young Age
Mikey Wren started his journey as an author when he was just a kid. He wrote his first book to teach other kids about financial literacy. His passion for writing and helping others led him to publish two books by the time he was a teenager. Mikey’s books are not just stories; they are tools to help young people understand money and business.
Business Ventures Beyond Books
Mikey didn’t stop at writing. He ventured into other business areas, showing his entrepreneurial spirit. He started a business that focuses on teaching financial literacy to kids in his community. Mikey’s goal is to make sure that every child knows how to manage money wisely. His business has grown, and he continues to inspire other young entrepreneurs.
Community Engagement and Mentorship
Mikey is not just a businessman; he is also a mentor. He spends a lot of time engaging with his community and helping other young people achieve their dreams. Mikey believes in giving back and often speaks at schools and community events. His efforts have made a significant impact, and he is a role model for many young people.
Fraser Doherty: The Jam Prodigy
Starting SuperJam in His Teens
Fraser Doherty began his journey into the world of business at the age of 14. Inspired by his grandmother’s jam recipes, he started making jam in his parents’ kitchen in Edinburgh, Scotland. His passion and dedication quickly turned this small venture into a full-fledged business. By the time he was 16, Fraser had developed a unique method to make jam 100% from fruit, which he named SuperJam. This innovation set him apart in the market and caught the attention of major retailers.
Scaling the Business Internationally
Fraser’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop at local markets. He worked tirelessly to expand SuperJam beyond the borders of Scotland. His hard work paid off when he secured a deal with Waitrose, a major UK supermarket chain. This was a significant milestone that helped him scale his business internationally. Today, SuperJam is sold in over 2,000 stores around the world, including in countries like Australia, South Korea, and Denmark. Fraser’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance.
Philanthropic Efforts and Social Impact
Beyond business, Fraser is deeply committed to giving back to the community. He founded the SuperJam Tea Parties, a charitable initiative that organizes tea parties for elderly people who live alone. These events aim to combat loneliness and bring joy to the lives of many. Fraser’s philanthropic efforts have earned him numerous awards and recognition, further solidifying his status as a young entrepreneur who not only excels in business but also makes a positive social impact.
Fraser Doherty’s journey from a teenage jam maker to an international business owner is truly inspiring. His story encourages young entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and make a difference in the world.
Asia Newson: Detroit’s Super Business Girl
Early Beginnings in Entrepreneurship
Asia Newson started her journey in Detroit at just 5 years old. She began by reselling candles and learning how to make them from her father. This early exposure to business laid the foundation for her future success. By the time she was 14, she was not only producing her own custom candles but also training other young people in entrepreneurship. Her story is a testament to the power of starting young and staying committed.
Building a Brand and Expanding Product Lines
As Asia’s business grew, so did her ambitions. She didn’t just stop at candles. She expanded her product lines and built a brand that resonated with many. Her ability to diversify and innovate has been key to her success. Asia’s brand, Super Business Girl, is now well-known, and she has appeared on various media platforms, including Ellen and NPR.
Community Involvement and Mentorship
Asia is not just about business; she’s also about giving back. She actively participates in community events and mentors other young entrepreneurs. Her commitment to social responsibility is evident in her actions. She believes in empowering others and making a positive impact on her community. This dedication to mentorship and community involvement sets her apart as a true leader.
Rachel Zietz: Lacrosse Equipment Innovator
Founding Gladiator Lacrosse
Rachel Zietz started Gladiator Lacrosse when she was just 13 years old. As a passionate lacrosse player, she noticed that the costs of new gear could quickly add up. Inspired by her own needs, she decided to create durable and affordable lacrosse equipment. With support from her parents, who are also in business, Rachel joined the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. There, she developed her business model and received a loan and warehouse space from her parents. Just two years later, her company was worth over $1 million.
Navigating the Sports Equipment Market
Entering the sports equipment market as a teenager was no easy feat. Rachel faced numerous challenges, from finding reliable manufacturers to marketing her products effectively. However, her determination and business savvy helped her overcome these obstacles. She focused on producing high-quality gear that met the needs of lacrosse players like herself. This approach not only set her apart from competitors but also built a loyal customer base.
Future Plans and Innovations
Rachel has big plans for the future of Gladiator Lacrosse. She aims to expand the product line to include more types of sports equipment. Additionally, she is exploring ways to incorporate new technologies into her products to enhance performance and durability. Rachel’s vision is to make Gladiator Lacrosse a leading brand in the sports equipment industry, known for its quality and innovation.
Noa Mintz: Revolutionizing Childcare Services
The Birth of Nannies by Noa
Lots of young people earn a bit of extra cash through babysitting, but Noa Mintz took that a step further. She was unhappy with the babysitter that her parents employed, so her mother challenged her to find someone better. Not only did she succeed, she then started finding babysitters for other family members and friends, with some financial support from her parents. Eventually, she turned it into a business, Nannies by Noa, that now handles over 190 clients.
Challenges and Successes in the Childcare Industry
Running a business at a young age is no small feat. Noa faced many challenges, from balancing schoolwork to managing client expectations. Despite these hurdles, she thrived. Her clients were often unaware of her age, which speaks volumes about her professionalism. Her business skills are clear; many of her clients were completely unaware of her age.
Future Growth and Expansion Plans
Noa has big plans for the future. She aims to expand Nannies by Noa beyond New York City, offering services in other major cities. She also plans to incorporate more educational and developmental programs for children, making her service not just about childcare but also about enrichment and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a young entrepreneur?
A young entrepreneur is someone who starts a business at a young age, often while still in school. This can include kids, teenagers, and even college students.
Who is an example of a young entrepreneur?
One example is Gabby Goodwin, who created Gabby Bows, a hair care product for young girls, when she was just seven years old.
How can a young person start their own business?
Young people can start by identifying a passion or a problem they want to solve. With support from parents or guardians, they can develop a business plan and start small, gradually expanding as they gain experience.
What challenges do young entrepreneurs face?
Young entrepreneurs often face challenges like limited funding, balancing school and business, and gaining credibility in their industry. However, many overcome these obstacles with determination and support.
Why is it important for young people to pursue entrepreneurship?
Pursuing entrepreneurship helps young people develop important life skills like problem-solving, financial literacy, and leadership. It also allows them to follow their passions and potentially create something impactful.
How do young entrepreneurs balance school and business?
Balancing school and business requires good time management and organization. Many young entrepreneurs prioritize their schoolwork while dedicating specific hours to their business activities.
Are there any resources available for young entrepreneurs?
Yes, there are many resources available, including online courses, mentorship programs, and youth entrepreneurship organizations that offer guidance and support.
What are some common traits of successful young entrepreneurs?
Successful young entrepreneurs often share traits like creativity, resilience, passion, and a willingness to learn from failures. They are also good at spotting opportunities and taking calculated risks.
