The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is an award-winning program from Utah that has expanded across the country, igniting a new generation of innovators. Through hands-on learning, kids discover entrepreneurship by launching small businesses from scratch: choosing products, creating booths, speaking to customers, and handling real money.
For Kandiss Torres, the journey began with her seven-year-old’s mission to make money. They came across the CEM and immediately loved how it teaches real-life skills that shape kids’ futures. Today, Kandiss proudly serves as Lead Supervisor.
“When I started with the company, I was the 28th manager and we were in a handful of states. Watching it grow to almost all 50 states has been absolutely heartwarming,” says Kandiss. “Just knowing that kids all over the nation are getting the same experience to learn, grow, and thrive the way I saw in my local community is amazing!”
While stepping up to sell can be intimidating, she’s seen how confidence takes over with that first sale. They just need a great product, a solid pitch, and their best foot forward.
One standout memory is when a father approached her in tears. His son had been struggling with sales, but instead of lowering prices, he chose to work harder. That courage paid off when he complimented the shirt of the next shopper, and she bought two bracelets to match.
Instances like these, where kids realize their potential and parents shine with pride, are what fuel Kandiss’s passion for the program.
“I hope that kids ultimately walk away feeling empowered. Empowered to do the things that bring them joy and make them money. Empowered to try new things, push themselves outside of their comfort zone, and embrace the hard moments,” says Kandiss. “I hope they feel a sense of pride in all they accomplished, whether that was $5 in sales or $500, because they put themselves out there.”
Stay up to date with new markets at: kidsmarkets.com