Junior Market generates record community engagement

ESTHER SHORT - About 300 young entrepreneurs showcased their businesses June 6 during the 2026 Junior Market hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber and presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union.

This year's event drew thousands of shoppers, families and community supporters to downtown Vancouver. Participants ages 6 to 16 operated businesses featuring handmade goods, custom apparel, jewelry, artwork, home décor, organic produce, slime creations and more - all developed, marketed and sold by the young business owners themselves.

The event generated nearly $40,000 in sales, giving participants hands-on experience managing revenue, interacting with customers and making real-time business decisions. Kids also competed in judged contests focused on business pitch presentations and marketing creativity.

At the conclusion of the market, young entrepreneurs submitted their final business results for consideration in the Southwest Washington Youth Entrepreneur of the Year competition.

Now in its fifth year, the Junior Market has become the signature showcase event of the Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver program. In preparation for the event, participants completed the free My Lemonade Day curriculum, where they learned essential entrepreneurial skills including budgeting, goal setting, customer service, marketing and giving back to the community.

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