Vancouver, Wash – Fourth Plain Community Commons (FPCC) is partnering with the Greater Vancouver Chamber, Pop-Local and the Vancouver Volcanoes to present a new youth entrepreneurial program! This Young Maker’s Market will be presented in 2 age groups: A kid’s category for ages 6-12 and a youth category for teens ages 13-16. The market itself will feature around 20-30 booths where the young participants will showcase their products while learning valuable business lessons such as project management and financial literacy. 

To participate in the market on October 26th, they can provide their certification from the Lemonade Day program facilitated through the Greater Vancouver Chamber. There are added benefits to the program including a philanthropic component, potential seed funding, and mentorship. Each young participant will be encouraged to donate 10% of their earnings from the market to a cause of their choice, highlighting the value of social responsibility within business. The goal of the Young Maker’s Market is to empower the youth in our community to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world around them. 

What: “Young Maker’s Market coming to Vancouver October 26th, 2024” 

Where: 3101 E. Fourth Plain Blvd ste.101 Vancouver, WA 98661 

When: October 26th, 2024, 11am- 3pm 

Visit the program webpage to learn more: Young Makers Market — Fourth Plain Community Commons (fpcommunitycommons.org) 

Quotes: 

Jessica Chan (Pop-Local Owner) 

“We’re thrilled to join forces with Fourth Plain Community Commons, the Greater Vancouver Chamber, and the Vancouver Volcanoes to empower young entrepreneurs through the Young Maker’s Market. This initiative not only fosters creativity but also presents a new opportunity to teach invaluable life skills, including problem-solving, new perspectives, self-confidence, and communication, alongside business and finance. We look forward to helping pave the way for future entrepreneurs in our community!” 

Brad Lechtenberg (Vancouver Volcanoes)

“The Vancouver Volcanoes are thrilled to help bring the Young Makers Market to life with the wonderful partners collaborating on the project. We are thankful to be working with Fourth Plain Community Commons, Pop Local, The Greater Vancouver Chamber, and IQ Credit Union to support these young people’s journey through financial literacy and entrepreneurship. The Young Makers Market supports our mission to be a platform of professional opportunity and experience for local young people, while being connected to the community in ways that inspire youth and cultivate growth.” 

Janet Kenefsky (VP of Operations for the Greater Vancouver Chamber and City Director of Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver) 

“The Young Maker’s Market is an incredible opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to put their skills into action and experience the excitement of running their own business. We are thrilled to expand the Chamber’s Lemonade Day program to this event, equipping young participants with essential skills like goal-setting, financial literacy, and community involvement. It’s all about nurturing confidence, sparking creativity, and inspiring the next generation of business leaders. We can’t wait to see these young innovators take on the challenge and showcase their talents,” 

About Our Partners: 

About Greater Vancouver Chamber: 

As Southwest Washington’s largest business organization, boasting nearly 1000 members, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) stands at the forefront of driving economic progress for over 130 years. Through their dedication to business, advocacy, community building and education, they’ve remained steadfast in their commitment to the region’s prosperity. Committed to cultivating the next generation of innovators, the Chamber actively nurtures entrepreneurial spirit among our youth. Through initiatives like the Young Makers’ Market, the Chamber will offer invaluable opportunities for budding entrepreneurs. Participants will not only learn essential business skills through the Lemonade Day Curriculum but also gain real-world experience. Moreover, they’ll forge vital connections and benefit from expert guidance, setting the stage for their entrepreneurial journey. 

About Pop-Local: 

Pop-Local is an organization passionate about supporting local businesses. They believe in the power of small businesses to drive economic growth and community vibrancy. Pop-Local is a retail home for products created by local makers: a one-stop-shop existing to support and share the stories of independent businesses, artists, and artisans local to the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with Fourth Plain Community Commons, Pop-Local brings expertise in retail management and a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders. 

About Vancouver Volcanoes:

The Vancouver Volcanoes are dedicated to going beyond the game of basketball to uplift, educate, and empower youth in our community to reach their fullest potential. We focus on promoting wellness, developing basic skills, financial literacy, community service, and by providing professional opportunities not otherwise accessible to aspiring young adults. 

In the past two seasons, we have established weekly and seasonal youth basketball camps and clinics while also providing seasonal internship opportunities to local Vancouver School District youth. This year we are excited to expand our program with Young Makers Market to provide more professional opportunities and training for local youth, as well as transform our game day experience into one with more fan fare and participation opportunities for young adults. Participants in the program will be exposed to careers and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sports entertainment industry, as well as being connected with local business owners, entrepreneurs, and mentors along their development journey.