A Station Helps Young Entrepreneurs Build More Than a Business

ABILENE, Kan. — For most kids, summer means swimming pools, bicycles and long afternoons with friends.

For dozens of young entrepreneurs in Dickinson County, it also means running a business.

On July 24 from 4-7 p.m., A Station will host its second Kids Farmers Market at 106 N. Spruce Street, giving youth ages 5-17 the opportunity to create products, operate their own vendor booths and experience what it's like to own a small business.

From homemade baked goods and fresh produce to crafts, flowers, metal art, slushes and lemonade, every booth represents more than something for sale—it represents a young person learning responsibility, creativity and confidence.

Unlike many community markets, the youth vendors are responsible for nearly every aspect of their business.

They create their products, set up their booths, interact with customers

and handle their own sales, giving them a hands-on introduction to entrepreneurship.

The inaugural Kids Farmers Market drew 32 vendors, and interest continues to grow. Organizers already have 40 booths scheduled for the July market, filling every available vendor space.

For A Station, however, the event isn't about the numbers.

Their mission is to create an opportunity for local youth to discover their talents while experiencing what it means to become an entrepreneur.

"We wanted to give kids a way to showcase their talents while learning about entrepreneurship," Jan Sexton said.

That investment extends beyond a single evening.

Organizers hope the market becomes something the community eagerly anticipates while inspiring young people to continue creating, building and dreaming long after summer ends. Future markets are already being planned, with September and October events expected to feature a fall-themed focus.

Community support plays an important role in making the market successful.

Residents are encouraged to shop the youth vendors, ask questions about their products and celebrate the creativity and hard work each young entrepreneur brings to the event.

As participation continues to grow, A Station is also seeking partnerships with local businesses interested in helping enhance the experience for youth vendors.

For one evening, customers may come looking for fresh produce, homemade treats or handcrafted gifts. They'll leave having invested in something much bigger—the next generation of Dickinson County entrepreneurs.

When local businesses create opportunities, young people discover their potential and communities rally behind them, that's what makes Dickinson County Roadmarkable.

"We're not just teaching kids how to sell lemonade," said Jan Sexton. "We're giving them the opportunity to discover what they're capable of."

To learn more about the Kids Farmers Market or explore partnership opportunities with A Station, email astationabilene@gmail.com. Whether you're interested in supporting young entrepreneurs, sponsoring future markets or helping expand the experience for youth vendors, A Station welcomes community involvement.