Young Entrepreneurs pitch ideas at 4-H Fair
Russellville, Ky. – Students across Logan County are stepping into the world of entrepreneurship through the 4-H “Down to Business” Fair, where young participants are creating and pitching their own small businesses.
Over the past several weeks, students involved in the program have worked to develop their ideas into real business concepts. Participants designed products, set prices and prepared presentations explaining how their businesses operate and why customers should buy their products.
At the fair, students present their ideas to a panel of judges in a format similar to the television show Shark Tank. Each participant explains their product, discusses their business plan and answers questions about their strategy and potential profits.
Some of the student-run businesses focus on solving everyday problems. One student created a product designed to help people manage stress and anger.
“My business is about stress release and anger management,” said Jackzin, creator of the business Whimsy & Woes. “You know, people of all ages get angry sometimes and need something to help instead of getting mad at everybody.”
Two brothers focused on products for pets. Miles and Eli created Deluxe Doggy Treats, a business selling homemade dog treats made with simple ingredients.
“They’re all three natural ingredients — bananas, oats and peanut butter,” Miles explained while presenting the product.
The pair said they believe their idea could turn into a successful small business.
“We think it’s a good business idea. We can make some profit,” Eli said.
Organizers say around two to three dozen students are taking part in this year’s competition. The event gives students an opportunity to practice public speaking, communication and sales skills while learning the basics of entrepreneurship.
Abi Berry, an account specialist with Farm Credit, said the experience helps students develop important real-world skills.
“They’re learning all the soft skills you need to know — being able to talk to people, look them in the eye, shake their hand, sales skills,” Berry said. “Learning all those things about getting out in the public, having a good reputation and really just putting themselves out there and being brave and bold.”
Some students are returning after seeing success in previous years. Maylee, who runs Sunny Sips Lemonade, said her lemonade stand performed well last year, encouraging her to participate again.
“Last year we did it as a little add-on and it sold really good, so we decided to do it this year,” she said. “You always need to have a plan.”
At the end of the fair, judges will select the top three young entrepreneurs and award prize money to the businesses that stand out the most. The prizes are sponsored by Farm Credit Mid-America.
Organizers say the program not only encourages creativity but also helps students gain confidence as they explore what it takes to start and run a business.
