What if children didn’t have to wait until they grew up to start a business?
Business by Kids is a project that encourages children to imagine, plan, and launch their very own businesses. From a lemonade stand to a pet treat bakery to a homework help desk — the idea comes from the child, and so does the work.
What Kids Learn
When a child builds a business, they practice skills that matter for life:
- Problem-solving — finding a need and creating a solution
- Financial literacy — understanding costs, pricing, and profit
- Communication — talking to customers, explaining their product
- Creativity — inventing something new and making it their own
- Teamwork and leadership — working with others and taking initiative
These aren’t lessons from a textbook. They’re real experiences that build real confidence.
The Tools
Business by Kids provides two simple tools designed specifically for children:
The Business Plan Map — a single-page printable template where kids answer key questions: What’s my big idea? Who are my customers? What do I need? How much will I charge? It makes business planning visual, fun, and achievable.
The Business Builder Game — an interactive online tool where kids drag and drop business elements onto a canvas — products, equipment, marketing, a storefront — while tracking their budget in real time.
The Kids Business Fair — a real-world event where children set up booths, present their products or services, and interact with real customers. It’s the ultimate test of everything they’ve planned — and the moment their business comes to life.
The Approach
The child leads. Adults support. The goal isn’t profit — it’s the process. Planning, deciding, creating, adjusting, and learning from every step. A business that doesn’t make money but teaches a child about effort and creativity is still a huge success.
If you are interested in collaboration on Business by Kids or any of our other projects, please fill out the form below.
