Applications open for 4th annual PMR Children’s Business Fair

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — Young entrepreneurs in Southern Illinois have an opportunity to put their business ideas to the test during the fourth annual PMR Children’s Business Fair.

Applications are open through Sept. 11 for the event, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at Yummy’s in Marion.

Children ages 6 to 17 can create and operate their own booths, selling products or services directly to the public while learning what it takes to run a business.

Organizers said a variety of age-appropriate businesses are welcome, ranging from art, baked goods and handmade products to services and other original ideas.

“We love getting to put this event on every year,” PMR Automotive General Manager Nicole Miskelley said. “The kids get the excitement of seeing their ideas turn into real businesses, and then they get to watch those businesses grow as customers visit their booths.”

Last year’s fair featured 12 youth-operated businesses and attracted more than 100 shoppers.

This year’s participants will also receive feedback from a panel of guest judges. The panel includes Joni Ross, owner of Binkley-Ross Funeral Home; William Lo, director of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, Cambria village president and general manager of New Kahala; Bill Swinford, owner of Swinford Media; and Benton Mayor Lee Messersmith.

Judges will visit booths and evaluate participants in areas including the originality of their business ideas, booth displays and sales pitches.