The annual Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Trade Show is happening today from noon to 2 p.m. at Claire’s Court at the Mesa Mall.
This interactive event, hosted by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, showcases business created by middle and high school students participating in the chamber’s YEA! program, which is in its 13th year.
These students have spent months learning how to turn their passions into real, functioning businesses, from writing business plans and securing seed funding to pitching investors and developing marketing strategies.
The trade show gives these students the opportunity to officially launch their businesses.
“This is one of the most energizing events of the year,” said Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candace Carnahan. “These young entrepreneurs are creative, motivated and brave. They’re not just learning about business; they’re doing business.”
The trade show is free to attend, and the chamber is encouraging the public to stop by and shop students’ products and services, which will include handmade goods, wellness products, technological services, art and more.