Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars Applicants

3DECOR / Daniel Farrales

When Daniel was introduced to 3D printing over six years ago, he was fascinated by the endless possibilities.  Since then, Daniel’s love of 3D printing has only grown stronger, along with his knowledge and skills.  Daniel taught himself the tricks of successful 3D printing and design, including CAD design, and continues to hone his skills. He creates unique 3D printed vases that add elegance and intrigue to any room. The judges were floored by Daniel’s passion and initiative to teach himself how to create and execute his designs. They all hope to see more of his products at upcoming Marketplaces!

ABITARE COLLECTIVE / Julia Diaz

After two years and a lot of success running her stationery business, One Tidy Day, Julia realized it was time to update her brand to reflect the growing person she was becoming.  In February of 2023, she launched Abitare Collective, a clothing brand focused on encouraging people to enjoy the outdoors.  Julia loves being a teen entrepreneur and her ability to connect with other teen entrepreneurs all over the world to share stories and get advice. Judges appplauded Julia’s self-awareness to launch a new business that aligns better with her priorities.  They were also impressed with her website and social presence.

AKAI DORESU / Hana Gragus 

After wanting to connect with her Japanese ancestry, Hana shifted her former business to a complete rebrand. Hana says she grew up with Japanese core beliefs such as working hard, having discipline and giving back. She hopes the new direction of her business can showcase more of what she is passionate about. Akai Doresu currently sells hair accessories from Japanese cloth or thrifted cloths. Hana says she is in the process of connecting Japanese culture with American streetwear to design T-shirts and hoodies. Hana is so excited about this next chapter of her business and really enjoys how her business represents who she is. The judges were so impressed with the way Hana pivoted from her previous business in order to incorporate an important aspect of herself into the business.

AROUND THE WORLD SWEET TREATS / Kadija Grace Dafondanouto and Madi Posner

Khadija has always had a sweet tooth. Baking since she was five years old, Khadija knows the joys and challenges that come with it. Baking requires a lot of work and attention to detail, as well as some math and science. Through her business, Around the World Sweet Treats, Khadija not only shares decadent pastries that kids may otherwise not be able to eat, but also teaches them how to bake through her YouTube channel! Through fun quizzes, baking challenges, and a subscription service, Khajida’s goal is to inspire kids like her to not only have fun baking, but to think outside the box as well! The judges loved Khajida’s unique spin on her baking business by adding creative baking videos as a service!

BAKING 4 GOOD / Ainsley and Brenna Dye  

Ainsley and Brenna Dye decided to create a business back in 2019 to help pay for a service trip to Belize.  They started creating deluxe cookie mixes at YouthBiz Marketplaces and other craft fairs, as well as taking direct orders.  After they successfully raised enough money for their trip to Belize, they wanted to keep their business going, continuing to raise money for important milestones. This year alone, the business has added 13 new flavors, continuing to appeal to new customers. All of the judges were excited about the unique flavors that Ainsley and Brenna have created.  They especially loved how this business revolves around a charitable component while also exhibiting savvy business sense.

BATH FIZZIES AND MORE / Kaiden and Tai-Shan Barwick

Kaiden and his brother Ty turned a hobby into a business. To help their mom de-stress they began making bath bombs and after some adjustments, found their current recipe. After their first marketplace and with the help of their mentor, they are learning what products to keep and how to adjust their prices. Kaiden hopes to make a website and begin donating to a charity. Overall they really enjoy making people happy and relaxed with their products. All of the judges loved to see how the business has clearly shifted due to need. They agree that seeing the product have a precence online would be great as well as marketing for different holidays or bundles.

BOBBY WASSABI HATS / Lydia Serbinin

Similar to many other business startup stories, Lydia sewed a hat for herself that she loved, wore it to school, and started getting requests from friends.  From there, she started her business and has sold over 200 handsewn hats since.  Lydia’s hats are sold by word of mouth and on Instagram, and she has an etsy page in the works to grow her business across the country. Judges all noted Lydia’s prowess in sewing and design, but also commended her correct identification of her target market and her ability to build a brand around that market.

BRIGHT SIDE WONDERS / Vivian Blessing 

Vivian’s business journey first began by selling soaps and eventually she decided to sell tote bags with her original artwork. Vivian thought this incorporated both her hobby and a necessity from her customers. Vivian has upgraded her soaps with new designs and scents, while continuing to sell her artwork. Throughout her business journey, Vivian has also written a magazine article, was featured on 9News and has visited local schools to talk about her business journey. Vivian says although she does love running her business, something she enjoys most is being able to educate other kids about being a young entrepreneur. The judges collectively applaud Vivian’s undying drive to reinvient her products and listen to her customers. They look forward to seeing the amazing ventures she has planned for the future of the business.

BUDDY’S TREASURES / Buddy Ernst

Buddy’s business journey began with a simple idea: selling things he personally loves. From treasure digs to bows and arrows, his passion led him to venture into crafting swords and shields, which proved to be a successful market. Despite seasonal limitations, Buddy found creative solutions, such as offering discounted prices for remaining bow and arrow stock. However, the true highlight of his entrepreneurial experience lies in making friends and connecting with others through his products.  The judges enjoyed Buddy’s product line and appreciated his passion and drive!

BY LYNNEA / Lynnea Aragon

Starting with high quality press on nails, Lynnea wanted to tackle women who can’t afford some luxuries due to convenience and cost. Since then she has added jewelry and clothing items to her offered products. Since her first marketplace in the summer of 2022, Lynnea has participated in at least 7 pop up shops/marketplaces and enjoys continuing to grow the community around her business. Judges were impressed by Lynnea’s commitment to community.  They also raved about her creativity, perseverance, and ambition.

CLOCK N’ KEY ESCAPE ROOMS /Justin Fugate

Justin has always enjoyed playing games because of his adventurous spirit. So, after trying his first escape room, he knew he wanted to make one of his own. After trial and error, he finally found a winning formula and is continuously making changes and wanting to improve. He is currently working on his next escape room with an Egyptian theme. He has learned many lessons throughout owning his business, such as time management and pricing points. The judges were very impressed with his overall concept and willingness to bring the experience to his customer. They also commended his hard-working spirit, always reinventing the business and never giving up!

DELUXE TEA / Calvin and Dean Lacheta

Calvin has always had business ideas, so after hearing about the YouthBiz Marketplace he decided to launch his tea business. Over time, Calvin has been able to improve his branding and now offers both bagged and fresh tea. Calvin prides himself on his tea being high quality, hand mixed and even tested by tea lovers. He hopes to increase his tea variety and says not only does he enjoy creating his tea, but he also loves interacting with his customers. The judges loved their enthusiam about their product. They think their marketing idea of a website is sure to help them gain more exposure.

EARRINGS BY EVIE / Evie Staff

Evie learned to create earrings at the YMCA and was eventually invited to sell them at a craft fair. During that first experience, she sold more than half of her products and her business has been moving upward ever since. Evie loves being able to be creative with her earring designs and has recently expanded the designs and improved the quality of her earrings. Evie loves that she is able to have a charitable component in her business, donating $1 of every sale to Save The Children and Doctors Without Borders. The judges were impressed by her perseverance and pure enjoyment in her creations. They can’t wait to see her new finished website!

ELI’S DIGITAL ART / Elijah Morgan

After attending a workshop that inspired Eli to sell his own artwork, he now sells high quality, unique, digital art of his own. Eli has recently made some successful changes to his business thanks to the help of his mentor. Eli has changed his packaging and recently designed a new African American line for his cards. Eli has big goals for the next year including creating a website, getting green products and partnering with a local shop. The judges were all very impressed with Eli’s artwork and knowledge of his business’ corner of the market. They see his marketing plan having a clear direction and think he could possibly offer customization with his amazing cards.

ELLIOTT’S SPRINKLER REPAIR / Grant Elliott

Grant approached the summer after his 8th grade year with the expectation that he’d be digging a lot of holes as he worked for his neighbor’s sprinkler repair company. He had no idea how much he’d enjoy the sprinkler business or that he’d end up taking over the business when he left for college 3 years later.  Now, Grant operates Elliott’s Sprinkler Repair, and has grown from 15 to over 60 clients.  He loves the problem solving nature of the operation, and is excited to continue growing the operation.  Judges raved about Grant’s entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy.  They loved how he has taken the initiative to learn the trade and grow his business through hard work.

FARMER GAVIN & SISTER’S BAKERY / Peyton, Gavin, and Ragan Ruhs  

Peyton and her siblings, Gavin and Ragan, have been running their bakery and egg business since before 2020, but it really started to take off during the pandemic.  Peyton and Ragan bake a wide variety of delicious treats that are sold at farmer’s markets and through custom orders.  Gavin sells farm fresh eggs and has even started selling hogs.  In late 2022, the talented siblings upgraded to a commercial license for their bakery and now hope to increase sales to big retailers across the Front Range. Judges gushed over the mouthwatering photos of baked goods and applauded the Ruhs’ family for their business drive.  Judges also appreciated the use of community building and charitable contributions to create brand awareness around their business.

FELT JOY DESIGNS / Zoe Townsend

Felt Joy Designs was born out of Zoe’s desire for more sustainable greeting card options. Her reusable card designs feature removable inserts, allowing recipients to keep personalized notes while reusing the cards for future occasions. Each handcrafted felt design highlights her joy and creativity, aiming to evoke a sense of warmth and joy for both current and future card owners. Felt Joy Designs represents Zoe’s commitment to spreading happiness and sustainability. The judges applauded Zoe for creating a business that promotes sustainability while setting herself apart from traditional greeting cards.

FUNNY BALLOONS LLC / Marisa Beck 

Given her family’s artistic background, it’s no surprise that Marisa was able to learn quickly that she had a talent for balloon animals after watching YouTube tutorials. Taking this newfound skill, Marisa decided to create Funny Balloons as an outlet for her creativity. From craft fairs to birthday parties and now a website, Marisa loves being able to bring people joy through her balloon art. While she is finding success from making balloons and teaching classes on how to make her creations, Marisa also plans on expanding her business to include henna tattoos as well. With this new addition, Marisa hopes to continue growing as an entrepreneur and taking her art to the next level! Judges agreed Marisa has done a wonderful job with pricing and marketing her business.

GO GIRLS POP-UP STAND / Brianna Winkfield with Alayah, Mariah, Micaela, and Amiyah

The Go Girls Pop-Up Stand is a mobile snack and toy shop based in Aurora, CO. Created by a group of motivated young girls, this business serves their community while teaching valuable skills such as work ethic, collaboration, and money management. The girls each have assigned roles, fostering their growth in people skills and financial knowledge. Inspired by their ideas, the vision of the Go Girls Pop-Up Stand is to encourage dreaming big and to provide the necessary resources for their ideas to thrive. The sky is the limit for these determined girls! The judges applauded the community effort by the girls and their commitment to grow as entrepreneurs!

GOODS BY GWEN / Gwendolyn Plue  

During the pandemic, Gwendolyn was looking for a way to utilize her creativity while stuck at home.  Her neighbor offered to teach her how to use a laser art machine, and she jumped at the opportunity.  She realized laser art would be a great opportunity for a business, and started Goods By Gwen in September of 2021.  Gwendolyn creates intricate wooden pieces to sell, from keychains to earrings to home decor and everything in between.  She has recently started expanding her business to include engraving and plans to keep growing. All of the judges gushed over Gwendolyn’s craftsmanship, talent, and creativity.  One judge commented, “These are some of the most quality handmade products I’ve seen!”

THE HAPHAZARD AXOLOTL / Hannah Bonjour

Hannah loves to be creative and explore her creativity through arts and crafts.  She started making her clay sculptures for fun until friends started asking for custom designs.  That’s when she started her business.  Hannah now sells handmade clay earrings, keychains, sculptures, and paintings.  She loves the way her business gives her creative freedom to try new things! Judges loved Hannah’s creativity and product quality.  They equally applauded her ability to turn her passion into a business!

HEALIAM / Ranjani Koushik 

When Ranjani’s sister faced a scary health concern, she and her family felt let down by the healthcare system.  Ranjani committed herself to addressing some of the problems she saw firsthand in her sister’s care–namely, blood panels.  She put in the work researching the processes, the standard operating procedures, the labs, and the tests.  She used all of this to launch Healiam, a comprehensive blood panel for less that is administered through health fairs held at accessible public locations. Judges were impressed by Ranjani’s action-oriented approach to addressing a personal problem she experienced, and her ability to make that solution available to those who need it.

HEXA CADDIES / Declan Koerper 

When Declan’s parents were having trouble organizing their drawers, his problem solving and creative mind came up with a storage solution, the Hexa caddies! Using his 3D Printer, he designed a hexagon shaped storage for phone cords. Declan has made a lot of friends along the way in his sales journey, and he hopes he can start shipping outside of his city so more people can become organized. Declan also donates to the U.S. Paralympic Ski and Snowboard team because he says they, like him, must be creative and continue to pursue their passions. The judges loved how Declan solved an everyday problem he and his family experienced in a very cool way. They can’t wait to see all he will accomplish with an up-and-coming website and marketing tools.

HIGH SCHOOL BABYSITTERS, LLC / Aspen Peterson

After managing a large group chat about babysitting jobs, Aspen realized there had to be a better way to connect families with babysitters.  She soon discovered that similar sites, such as Care.com, had a minimum age requirement of 18 to join, and she saw her opportunity.  High School Babysitters connects families with high schoolers who can fulfill babysitting jobs on demand, filling the gap in the market that excluded teen babysitters. Judges were impressed with Aspen’s ability to identify a gap in the market and develop a business to fill that gap.  They also loved her professionalism and pricing model.

HOME GROWN PLANTS / Kaitlyn and Madison Kral 

Born out of shared love for gardening, Kaitlyn and her sister, Madison, have been growing a beautiful variety of plants that go great on your porch or in your home. Their process involves cutting the branches, using them to grow new plants, and grouping them together to give a fuller look.  Despite their busy schedule, Kaitlyn and Madison enjoy their business and the low stress of plant care. They plan on adding aloe plants to their inventory in the near future! The judges thought this creative way to sell plants was a big hit!

JACOB’S 3-DS / Jacob Kral 

Jacob has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and it’s evident with the success he’s found with Jacob’s 3-ds; a business that specializes in a diverse set of 3D printed items from keychains to fidgets. With the help of family and friends, Jacob has been able to use his very own 3D printer and learn programming that helps him create unique items that anyone can enjoy. Jacob sells at the YouthBiz Marketplace and on Facebook and is planning on adding local city markets into the mix as well. With his tech expertise, Jacob is working on building a website where anyone interested in his 3D items can purchase. The judges were impressed by Jacob’s ability to recognize trends in products and create something for all of his customers.

JEWELRY BY ADLY / Adly Hughes

Unconstrained by her age, Adly continues to expand her business, Jewelry by Adly, to new heights! Starting from a jewelry kit she received for Christmas, Adly has grown her business to not only include handmade items such as bracelets and necklaces, but also delicious cookies and cupcakes for her customers to enjoy! Selling at YouthBiz Marketplaces and farmers markets, Adly hopes to continue growing her business and offering the best prices possible to her customers! The judges were impressed by the creativity Adly puts into her products.

KIDZ4KIDS / Evelyn Preisinger

Evelyn started her business, Kidzs4Kidz, during the boredom of COVID. Inspired by her cousin’s honey-selling venture, she decided to create a lip balm business in Colorado due to the dry climate. Initially, Evelyn donated 25% of the earnings to charities like the Anschutz medical campus and the Colorado Children’s Hospital. However, after learning about the needs of a homeless shelter from her dad’s colleague, she shifted the donation model. For every lip balm purchased, she now donates one to the homeless shelter. With each lip balm priced at $1.50, the business has generated around $400 so far. Evelyn is determined to continue making a positive impact. The judges appreciated the steps Evelyn took to be sure her lip balm stands out!

KIND MIND CLUB / Caroline Sullivan

In 2021, Caroline noticed how many of her classmates were struggling with mental health challenges.  Rather than feeling powerless against such an overwhelming problem, Caroline recognized the big impact that continuous small actions could make. After a summer of research, she launched Kind Mind Club, a line of clothing with mental health positive phrases on each piece.  In the years since, Caroline has grown the business to include several different product lines and ever-increasing sales. Judges were especially impressed by Caroline’s sophisticated marketing and branding strategy.  Many remarked how well designed and cohesive her website and social channels are and loved her ambition to reach out to influencers for marketing.

LA COFFEE SHOP / Luis Angel Dominguez-Hernandez, Kellie Anette Rivas, Dave Villagrana, and Alina Tyvanchuck

What started as a lemonade stand turned into LA Coffee Shop. Throughout Luis’s business journey, he has learned about pricing and has gotten the opportunity to do catering events. From lattes, to frappes and refreshers, Luis loves the amount of independence and leadership he gets to take on from running his business. Currently you can order online, but one of his goals is to market his business and spread the word so more coffee lovers can enjoy his coffee shop. The judges were all so very impressed by what the business has been able to accomplish so far. They think with maybe a little outreach to local events, schools, or small shops, their business could really go to the next level.

LOOM BRACELETS / Jack McBreen 

Jack created Loom Bracelets after learning about how to make them in his school’s aftercare program. A quick learner, Jack has been in business for 6 months now and has already begun to teach other students how to make bracelets through educational sessions. Jack loves seeing how his hard work pays off and he wants to sell his bracelets around his community to reach more people. The judges loved that Jack is teaching others his skills and admired his creativity!

LUMPIA CRAZE / Ivan Farrales 

Inspired by his siblings’ successful lumpia business a decade ago, Ivan embarked on his own journey. Selling lumpia this year, he enjoys engaging with customers and sharing the story and ingredients behind the dish. The overwhelming positive response has sparked suggestions for expanding into a food truck. While seeking ways to increase efficiency in production, Ivan aspires to generate income to support charitable causes, particularly helping the homeless and children in need. Judges were so impressed with Ivan’s hard work and commitment to his family.

MADISON STREET MADE / Jocelyn Proulx and Sagan Abraham

Jocelyn’s perfume business started when she visited her friend Sagan, who was making lavender perfume. Inspired by the idea, they decided to sell their own perfumes. They expanded their product range to include scents like lemon and orange, transitioning from ziplock bags to small bottles for packaging. Jocelyn finds immense joy in running this business due to the creative aspect of perfume making, which aligns with her passion for art. Collaborating with her friend Sagan adds to the enjoyment, as they work together to create and share their perfumes. The judges appreciated the passion and teamwork that Jocelyn and Sagan bring to their business.

MR. BANGSLOTH BUILDS / Liam Gaskins

Inspired by his love for collecting and building LEGOs, Liam creates and sells his own brick creations. Starting with a fleet of spaceships, Liam expanded his offerings to include an original lunar lander and mosaic tiles. He gathers ideas by constantly building and seeks input from his family to select designs that are affordable and easy for others to make. While embracing who he is, Liam finds solace in his brick creations, as they allow him to channel his creativity and focus, and provide a sense of limitless possibilities. Ultimately, Mr. BangSloth Builds embodies Liam’s passion and unique entrepreneurial spirit. The judges were impressed with Liam’s passion and commitment in building his business!

MT FOR YOU SHOPPE / Michael Topino

Michael’s passion for promoting language learning and reading led him to start his business, MT FOR YOU SHOPPE. He created unique bookmarks that teach customers Italian words along with their English meanings, allowing them to learn while they read. Although he initially considered soft materials, Michael chose wooden sticks for their ease of decoration. What he loves most is the opportunity to help customers expand their vocabulary in another language, foster curiosity about different cultures, and provide assistance during their travels to Italy. The judges agreed that Michael’s business is thoughtful and promotes a love of learning!

THE NEVERENDING CRAFTER / Caleb Winger

The NeverEnding Crafter is the brainchild of Caleb, who has been passionate about crafting since a young age. Determined to share his creations with the world, Caleb started his own business selling a wide variety of handmade products, from candles to bookmarks and more. Seeking to earn more than just allowance money, he aspires to save up for a 3D printer to expand his product offerings. Learning from his market experiences, he adjusted prices and added new products based on customer preferences. The joy on people’s faces and their admiration for his work fuels Caleb’s love for his business. The judges love Caleb’s variety of products and his business saavy in changes prices when needed.

NEW DAY / Zoe Malhotra and Sydney Knaizer

Moved by the images and stories coming out of the conflict in Ukraine as well as an account from the life of a young refugee, friends Zoe and Sydney were inspired to act. Their business is New Day, a sweets and jewelry business that raises funds for displaced Ukranians escaping the war. Currently selling to neighbors and their families, Zoe and Sydney plan to expand their business to others as well, with the goal of raising over $1,000 for Ukrainian refugees. The judges applauded their big hearts and charitable component of New Day.

POTTY FAIRYTALES LLC / Maile McManis

With three younger siblings, Maile often heard her mom sharing stories of the trials and tribulations of potty training, and realized there was an opportunity.  After a lot of research, Maile formed Potty Fairytales, LLC, an interactive tool to help children and parents effectively learn potty training.  Maile wrote and illustrated a children’s story that accompanies a plush doll and mini toilet equipped with a secret drawer for rewards.  She hopes to alleviate this universal challenge with her fun and relatable products. Judges were floored by Maile’s foresight into market expansion and overseas manufacturing.  As a new business, they can’t wait to see how Maile is able to grow.

PUPCYCLING / Lexi Fabricant

Lexi has a special place in her heart for pets. She was devastated when her dog Sunny didn’t like the expensive dog toy she bought. Since she didn’t want to just throw the toy away, this sparked Lexi’s idea and business, Pupcycling! Lexi figured out a way to make tug of war toys out of upcycled material. She prides herself on her business being not only durable and high quality, but also affordable and hopes to begin selling at farmers markets soon. All of the judges praised Lexi for her eco-friendly business. They believe in what the business stands for and encourage her to build a presence online, even if just for marketing.

SERRATED SOLUTIONS / Kai Cabeen 

Learning from his mom that something can not only taste great, but also be healthy, Kai found his passion for making healthy and sustainable herbal creations through Serrated Solutions. His specialty is a delicious take on fire cider that can be used as syrup, mixed in drinks, and even a dressing for your salad! Kai hopes that he can continue to expand his business by adding a line of healthy and locally harvested food items to those wanting something that’s delicious and good for you too! As of now, Kai sells his Fire Cider at our YouthBiz Marketplace and his mom’s shop but plans to sell at other outlets as well. The judges appreciated Kai using local ingredients and thought the support from his family is wonderful!

SHADE SENSE STUDIO / Preesha Halder and Abby Shu

Although Preesha and Abby met during online classes, they quickly formed a friendship that turned into a savvy business partnership. Both business owners had an interest in making a difference and experimenting with soap.  They both have their favorite parts of running a business, from marketing to the creation of their products. Throughout the next year they hope to become more involved in social media and continue to find a balance between business and school. The judges were very impressed with how they created their products from other products. With their amazing presence online, the judges see them diversifying their product successfully soon.

SIVIVE STORM / Jack and Eli Battaglia

From homemade crafts to writing books, brothers Jack and Eli use their artistic abilities to bring their imaginations to life! They eventually found their creative spark with Sivive Storm, a 3D printed and handmade craft business that sells everything from hand sewn pillows to 3D printed swords! Along with a passion for crafts, Jack and Eli love helping those in need. They have used the money from their business to support those affected by the war in Ukraine and will continue to support philanthropic causes. The judges appreciated how Sivive Storm uses their skills to create their products.

SOPHIA MADELINE STUDIO / Sophia Drake

After playing around with some clay and wanting to save up for her own iPad, Sophia realized she could sell the earrings she was making. At her first craft fair, she had many customers visiting her booth all day and was even awarded Best Presentation. A couple years and many fairs later, Sophia continues to grow her business and confidence and is thankful for every opportunity she has. All of the judges were impressed with her handmade designs, creativity, and utmost professionalism.

SOPHIE-ROSE LIP BALM / Sophia Kohls

Since other lip balms can contain harsh chemicals, Sophia decided to make her own lip balm. She currently has nine flavors, from lemon mint to birthday cake. Her mission is to create an all natural lip balm to maximize well-being and provide deep hydration.  For those reasons, her lip balms only contain four ingredients. Sophia loves making her product and loves the joy her lip balms bring her customers. Sophia donates to the Make A Wish Foundation and she hopes to get her lip balms into local markets soon. The judges were very impressed by Sophie’s knowledge of the market and in making her products align with her personal views!

SPARKLE BOUTIQUE / Maya Klein

Maya started Sparkle Boutique after experimenting with her sister making different types of food. It wasn’t until she perfected her chocolate recipe that Maya found her stride. Using the skills she learned from attending camp at Young Americans, Maya was able to launch her business, selling custom boxed chocolates for anyone to enjoy! She plans on adding a website to her business and is committed to working with charities in her community as well! The judges admired Maya’s perseverance and knack for problem solving when it comes to her business!  

STUFF FOR SALE (SFS) / Alessia Cheong

Alessia loves going to garage sales and thrift stores but thought that they could be more convenient. This is when Stuff for Sale was born! With a love of thrifting and her parents’ support, Alessia identifies key items that she can sell at a reasonable rate and with improved convenience! Judges loved how Alessia is helping her community through her business.

SUGAR STUDIOS / Layla Hurd

Having a knack for crafting, Layla was inspired by her parents to start Sugar Studios, a handmade keychain and ornament business. Eye catching items that stand out on your backpack, luggage, and Christmas Tree, Layla continues to improve her products and offer fantastic prices. What Layla loves most about her business is the fun that she has in testing out new designs. This year, she hopes to add resin Christmas ornaments to her product line! The judges applauded Layla for setting great prices for a professional looking product.

TEEN HUSTL / Jack Bonneau

As a serial entrepreneur, Jack was looking for a new business venture that would bring back business opportunities for teens in today’s gig economy. Jack started Teen Hustl, a business that employs local teens to take Amazon returns to dropoff locations and provide delivery services for buyers and sellers on Nextdoor.com.  Judges raved about Jack’s entrepreneurial spirit, and especially appreciated his ability to pivot, based on market trends.

THE VELVET BOX / Diana, Alexandra, Giorgios, and Eleni Mykoniatis

The Velvet Box came to be by the Mykoniatis kids’ love of making a variety of items. Diana thought to herself, “I really enjoy making soaps so why not sell them!” Together they sell sweet treats, designed coasters, handmade soaps and jewelry. Diana and her business partners all work together, in different roles to complete their business. Not only do they enjoy making profits but they love to socialize at marketplaces. The Velvet Box hopes to keep attending marketplace events and create a website for more sales. The judges loved how they all collaborate to create and grow something together.

VIRTUAL BOOK BUDDY / Jackson Whitehead

Jackson’s passion for reading and the joy of shared storytelling with his grandmother inspired him to start his own business. Recognizing the value of virtual reading sessions, he launched VirtualBookBuddy.com. As a young reader, clients can browse through his virtual bookcase and schedule 30-minute reading sessions with him. Combining his love for entrepreneurship and reading, Jackson finds fulfillment in running his business and sharing his favorite stories. The judges agreed that Jackson provides a service that not only helps kids read, but connects them as well!

WILLA MIETTE STUDIO / Willa Wang

It was through Willa’s passion for art and wildlife that her business formed. Willa creates sustainable shirts and more with handmade designs of wildlife. Through feedback, Willa has expanded her product line and created a larger online presence. Willa Miette Studio has formed more community partnerships this year and Willa says she loves being able to create something to help causes she cares about. She loves how running her business has helped her step out of her comfort zone. The judges were impressed by her ability to combine her interests to make this business, as well as her adaptability to changes in the world of business to continue evolving.

THE YOUNG QUILLEST / Liv Martin

Sharing a love of the craft, quilling, with her sister AJ, Liv decided to start her own quilling business. Quilling is a technique that involves twirling paper into circles and then making shapes with it. Her first experience selling her products was at the YouthBiz Marketplace, and she fell in love with the experience of meeting new people and selling items that make people happy. What motivates Liv is combining her love of art with being able to learn how to run a business. In the future, she is planning on taking her business to either ETSY or her very own website. The judges applauded Liv for her unique and high-quality quilled products!

ZING SOAPS / Jackson Renberg

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, nine-year-old Jackson discovered a newfound interest in soap making. Starting as a fun project, his homemade soaps received positive feedback from friends and family, leading to more experimentation with different shapes, sizes, and scents. The introduction of a donut-shaped soap became a big hit and sparked the idea of turning this passion into a business. Jackson’s love for the soap business stems from its universal appeal and the joy it brings to others. The judges agreed that Jackson has a fantastic website that encourages customers to buy his creative and colorful soaps.

ZOE’S CANDY SHOP / Zoya Harb

“Who doesn’t love candy?” That was Zoya’s motivation after being inspired to start her own candy business. With the help of her mom, Zoya makes her own homemade candy to sell to her schoolmates and neighbors, providing tasty treats from gummy bears all the way to lollipops. As of now, Zoya has been adding international candy to her inventory, including Mexican candy and spices.  Zoya says what she loves most about running her business is the happiness her candy brings to her customers. She also brings happiness through her philanthropic endeavors, including donations to her school.  Zoya plans on adding a website and expanding her inventory to over 20 distinct types of candy! The judges appreciated Zoya’s creativity in adding international candies to sell to customers.