Washington, D.C. – On August 3 and 4, the Youth Entrepreneur Institute (YEI) hosted its annual KidBizCON at a Southeast D.C. gymnasium, bringing together more than 200 attendees, including over 30 youth‑owned businesses, local entrepreneurs, and community leaders. The two‑day event highlighted the growing emphasis on youth‑led entrepreneurship during National Black Business Month.
Program Focus and Leadership
YEI founder and executive director Tacharna Crump emphasized that the goal is “to create an ecosystem where young people can build businesses, connect with mentors, and discover what’s possible when their ideas are supported.” Alumni Deloris Betty, who launched the Chill N Thrill brand after participating in YEI as a freshman, echoed that sentiment, noting the program opens opportunities for elementary and middle‑school students to develop a creative mindset and learn the basics of starting a business.
Pitch Competition and Prizes
The centerpiece of KidBizCON was a three‑part Youth Business Pitch Competition. Participants as young as nine presented their products to a panel of judges—Kristen Barney, Kevin Hinton, Nicole McQueen, Samuel Moore and Nana Malaya—who evaluated pitch delivery, product knowledge, and overall presentation. The competition awarded a total of $1,500 in cash prizes, providing winners with seed money to scale their ideas.
Student Entrepreneurs in Action
Among the standout vendors was 18‑year‑old Elijah Robinson, a Southeast native who turned a personal need for a longer‑lasting fragrance into Too Fresh, a cologne‑bomb company. Robinson described his product development process, emphasizing all‑natural ingredients and a roll‑on format that avoids the greasy feel of traditional oils.
Nine‑year‑old Journey Walker showcased Pink Art, a line of pink‑themed T‑shirts she hopes will grow into a global brand. While she did not win a cash prize, Walker earned runner‑up status and proudly displayed a shirt she gifted to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Leadership Lab and Community Impact
On August 4, KidBizCON featured a Leadership Lab Experience with eight interactive rotations led by local entrepreneurs, makers, and educators. Participants explored topics such as digital fabrication, marketing strategy, advocacy, and community leadership. YEI’s lead cosmetic instructor, who goes by Mark Untitled Love, stressed that the program teaches lessons not found in traditional classrooms, including personal accountability and self‑promotion.
YEI officials highlighted that exposing youth to real‑world business challenges fosters confidence, discipline, and a sense of ownership—values they believe translate into stronger families and neighborhoods.
Looking Ahead
KidBizCON’s success reflects a broader push to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs in the District. Organizers plan to expand the program’s reach next year, aiming to involve more schools and increase mentorship opportunities. As the event concluded, participants left with new connections, practical feedback, and a clearer vision of how their ideas can contribute to the local economy.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
