Emerging Entrepreneurs 2026

The Emerging Entrepreneurs Program is a special opportunity for youth ages 11–18 to turn a business idea into a real marketplace experience. Designed for creative, motivated young people who are ready to build something of their own, this program combines practical business learning with the excitement of launching at the Sammamish Farmers Market.

Selected Participants will Move Through a Two-part Experience

Part 1: Market Readiness Workshop

Saturday, April 25 | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Participants will take part in a hands-on, high-energy workshop designed to help them sharpen and strengthen their business ideas. They will work on pricing, customer appeal, presentation, sales strategy, and stall planning so they can arrive at the market with greater clarity and confidence.

Part 2: Youth Business Expo at the Sammamish Farmers Market

Wednesday, May 20 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Young entrepreneurs will showcase their ventures at a special Youth Business Expo hosted within the vibrant Sammamish Farmers Market. Each selected participant will operate their own business stall, giving them the chance to display their products, connect with customers, pitch their idea, and experience the thrill of making real sales in a lively community setting.

The program costs $75 per person.

Who Should Apply?

We invite applications from youth ages 11–18 who:

• have a clear idea for a product or service they want to sell
• are excited to create, build, and learn
• are ready to participate in both parts of the program
• want to experience what entrepreneurship feels like in real life

Please note that this is an application-based program. All applications will be reviewed, and participants will be selected by the Sammamish Chamber of Commerce.

How the Application Process Works

Apply
Submit an application with your business idea.

Selection
Applications will be reviewed by the Sammamish Chamber of Commerce, and selected participants will be invited to join the program.

Confirm Your Spot
Selected participants will complete registration and payment, then begin preparing for the workshop and market experience. The program costs $75 per person.

Business Idea Guidelines

The Sammamish Farmers Market is an artisan-style market that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and locally made goods. Youth entrepreneurs participating in the Emerging Entrepreneurs Program should plan business ideas that reflect this spirit.

What Makes a Great Business Idea for the Market

Successful ideas typically involve handmade, creative, or artisan-style products that customers can easily purchase and take home. Examples include:

The most successful stalls are those where the young entrepreneur has designed, made, or assembled the product themselves.

Ideas That Are Not Allowed

• 3D printed, laser cut or designs printed off the internet. Youth may not purchase licenses for patterns to create their product (3D). All designs must be their own creations.
• Any product to be sold must be fully made in WA. For example, items that are designed by a youth may not have the designed item printed or created in another country or state.

Because of local regulations and market policies, some products cannot be sold at the Youth Business Expo. The following are not permitted:

Farmers Market Guidelines for Participation

• All participants will be responsible for setting up their own market booth. As per Sammamish Farmers Market guidelines, each booth must include:
  • 10 x 10 straight-legged canopy
  • Four 24lb weights to keep the canopy grounded (without weights, vending will not be permitted)
  • Table/chairs/displays as needed
• Set up for the market: 3:00 pm
• Market hours: 4:00 – 8:00 pm
• Takedown and cleanup: 8:00 – 8:30 pm

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The Sammamish Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors and community supporters who make this opportunity possible for local youth.

Their support helps create meaningful, real-world learning experiences that empower the next generation of innovators, creators, and business leaders.

We are grateful for their investment in youth entrepreneurship and community growth.

Have questions?

Send us an email, and we’ll get in touch.