AMERICAN CANYON, Calif., June 12, 2023, American Canyon announces the successful launch of Kids Commerce, a groundbreaking youth entrepreneurship program, in conjunction with the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce’s highly anticipated Meet Me in the Street event series, kicking off Wednesday, June 14, 2023. At their meeting on May 2, 2023, the American Canyon City Council approved waiving business license fees for the participating youth in the Kids Commerce program in support of the Council’s goal of expanding diverse business and employment opportunities.
Kids Commerce, spearheaded by the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce is a comprehensive program that equips young participants with essential business skills, including business planning, budgeting, marketing strategies, and financial literacy. Through hands-on learning, the program facilitates the creation of business plans, establishment of social media presence, opening of bank accounts, and application for necessary permits at the city, state, and county levels. Local American Canyon businesses partnered with the Chamber to provide educational sessions. Redwood Credit Union facilitated financial literacy education, educating participants on budgeting and bank accounts. Darelle Doi with Invesdid led a Vision Board Session to teach young participants how to find their purpose and vision. Furthermore, Kasama Lee, an expert from Re/Max Gold American Canyon, shared her knowledge of marketing strategies with the young entrepreneurs.
The program showcases a diverse range of youth businesses, highlighting the creativity and innovation of young entrepreneurs. From homemade dog biscuits, handmade hair scrunchies, and jewelry to key chains, tie-dye shirts, and mouth-watering treats like ice cream sandwich cookies and truffles, the Kids Commerce businesses have it all. Additionally, there are offerings in the fields of art, clothing, plants, tacos, and even slime that create a vibrant marketplace.
Valerie Zizak-Morais emphasized the impact of Kids Commerce on the community, saying, "The response to Kids Commerce has been phenomenal. We have witnessed firsthand the transformation in these young entrepreneurs as they develop crucial business skills and gain the confidence to pursue their passions."
The Meet me in the Street events act as a bridge connecting businesses with the community, featuring 100 business tables, 40 food vendors, live music, yard games, kids' activities, and a bar offering a selection of wine, beer, and seasonal cocktails. This year’s Meet Me in the Street promises to be an exciting and engaging experience for attendees of all ages. The event will take place on June 14, July 12 and August 9, 2023, from 5-8 PM, on West American Canyon Road between James and Elliott.
