Young entrepreneurs showcase products at Buda BEE Market

BUDA — Knowing that there is a large number of entrepreneurs in the area, the Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) hosted its first Buda Early Entrepreneurs (BEE) Market on Saturday, July 27 at Buda City Hall.

Young entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase their business ideas, sell handmade crafts, baked goods, art or any other products, along with offering their services. This market allowed them to understand the basics of running a business, including setting up their booth and interacting with customers.

“We have a large number of entrepreneurs in the area and one of our target industries is entrepreneurship. We really wanted to do this [to help] kids realize that they could be an entrepreneur and do it right here in Buda,” said Jennifer Storm, Buda EDC CEO.

There was a large range of products and services offered at the market from the 46 entrepreneurs — ages 5-18 — who participated. This included, but was not limited to, Roomba vacuum repair, freeze-dried candy, dog treats, stickers, hand-spun cotton candy, keychains/backpack charms, jewelry, plants and even lion petting (or just a dog who wants snuggles).

Individuals under the age of 18 make up about 30% of the population of Buda, Storm explained, so city officials have been trying to “find the pulse for the future entrepreneurs” in the community.

Each entrepreneur was able to keep 100% of the profits, which allows them to understand all of the ins and outs of running a business, such as the cost of making the product and what the end profit looks like, according to Storm.

“How to talk to people; how to sell and market themselves and their products is really important,” she said. “I think the more we can get kids comfortable speaking in public and the idea of turning what’s a passion into a business will be a good thing for our community down the road,.”

This event was organized by the Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and sponsored by the Buda Area Chamber of Commerce and the city of Buda.