Kolbe Children' s Business Fair

The Kolbe Children's Business Fair in Chicago is a unique opportunity for children aged 5 to 15 to become young entrepreneurs by launching their very own startup businesses. Taking place in a vibrant marketplace setting, this one-day event encourages children to develop a brand, create a product or service, and build a marketing strategy that culminates in selling to real customers.

Organized by The Sanctuary Academy with support from various donors and volunteers, this fair is the seventh edition of its kind, aiming to inspire children through the legacy of St. Maximillian Kolbe, a figure recognized for his prophetic entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to faith in business.

This year, the fair will host 60 booths, providing a platform for approximately 1,500 attendees to engage with the entrepreneurial spirit of the youth. The Kolbe Children's Business Fair stands out as the first Catholic children's business fair that highlights the integral role of faith in entrepreneurship while being open to all children, regardless of their religious background.

Participants are encouraged to think critically about their business ideas, from product creation to marketing strategies. Each business will be allocated a table with chairs, and while electricity may not be provided, exhibitors are welcome to bring their own decorations and tents. The fair emphasizes that children take charge of their booths, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in setting up, customer interaction, and sales without parental intervention in the selling process.

This initiative not only equips children with essential business skills but also promotes the values of principled entrepreneurship as role models for future generations.