Emerald Student Business Fair

Create It. Price It. Sell It.

The Emerald Student Business Fair gives 3rd–5th grade students the opportunity to design, launch, and run their own small business. There is no fee to participate.

Students will create an original product, develop pricing, plan a budget, and sell to real customers in a supportive school environment. 

This event is designed as a learning experience. The goal is creativity, effort, and growth, not guaranteed profit.

Business Guidelines

All student businesses must follow these rules:

• Products must be created, designed, or meaningfully transformed by the student(s).
• Resale of pre-made, bulk items is not permitted.
• No food or beverage items may be sold.
• Maximum price per item is $20.
• Businesses may offer up to 3 related products or variations.
• Electrical outlets will not be available.
• All items must be school-appropriate.
• Students must run their own booth.
• Parents may supervise but may not sell.
• Students must bring their own cash float and manage their own money.
• Emerald PTO is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.

The review committee reserves the right to approve or deny applications to ensure fairness, safety, and variety.



Things to Think About Before Applying

Starting a business takes planning. Ask yourself:

• What will I name my business?
• What product will I create?
• Who will want to buy it?
• How much does it cost to make?
• How much will I charge?
• How many should I make?
• How will I display my products?
• What will I do if I sell out?
• What will I do with my profits?

Parents may help guide thinking, but students should take the lead.



Product Ideas to Get You Started

Need inspiration? Here are some ideas:

• Personalized Items: Custom beaded pens, keychains, and cup charms.
• Home Decor & Accessories: Handmade soaps, candles, macrame projects, and upcycled items.
• Fun & Novelty:  "Calm Down Jars" (glitter jars), slime, Frankenstein pet creations, and fidget toys.
• Wearables: Tie-dye t-shirts, friendship bracelets, knitted scarves, etc.
• Art & Beauty: Face painting, hair tinsel/chalk, and nail art salons.
• Entertainment: Photo booths, balloon animals, or temporary tattoo stations.
• Games: Carnival-style games.

(Products must still follow all event guidelines.)

Tips for Success

• Keep Pricing Simple: Use $0.25 to $2.00 price points for peers, or up to $10 for adult buyers.
• Upcycle Materials: Use household items like jars, fabric scraps, and cardboard to reduce startup costs.
• Branding: Create a catchy business name and a visually appealing, organized table.



Ready to Apply?