Kidovate: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Victoria
A Remarkable Growth Journey
From a humble beginning featuring just 26 entries in its inaugural year, Kidovate has blossomed into a vibrant marketplace, hosting around 230 stalls at Victoria’s Bay Centre in 2025. This growth not only showcases the increasing interest in youth entrepreneurship but also highlights the effectiveness of Kidovate’s mission to empower young minds.
Registration and Learning Resources
Participating in Kidovate is an enriching experience for youth, as they can register for free. Each participant receives a graphic novel-style workbook focused on business startups, coupled with mentorship from students at the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business. This combination of practical knowledge and professional guidance equips young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.
Market Day: A Platform to Shine
On April 18th, the excitement culminates with a market day where participants can showcase their creations or products. Each young entrepreneur is provided with a free table to sell their goods. Importantly, they retain all the profits from their sales, though they are encouraged to donate a portion to a nonprofit organization of their choice. This initiative nurtures a sense of social responsibility alongside entrepreneurial spirit.
Financial Success Stories
Previous market days have seen impressive outcomes, with some stalls generating over $1,000 in sales. These success stories are a testament to the hard work and creativity that each participant brings to the table, reflecting their understanding of the market and customer needs.
Learning Through Experience
Brock, one of the co-founders, emphasizes that the Kidovate experience is designed to mimic the real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Participants grapple with questions like, “What do I sell? Do I need partners? How should I price my product?” By engaging in this process, they not only learn about crafting and marketing but also think critically about their customer base.
Familiar Faces in the Program
Co-founder Claudia Smith notes that many students return to the program year after year, creating a familiar dynamic in the entrepreneurial community. “We know entrepreneurs learn, iterate, and refine their approach. Kidovate allows them to reiterate this cycle,” she explained. Participants gain valuable feedback from customers, enabling them to make informed changes for future endeavors.
A Diverse Array of Products
As Kidovate prepares for its upcoming event in Nanaimo, a vibrant mix of products is expected to emerge. Offerings may include handmade clothing, jewelry, seedlings, knitted items, and even 3D-printed toys. Claudia expressed enthusiasm about the range of creativity displayed, stating, “The students bring their personal interests and unique personalities to what they sell.”
Flexibility in Business Models
Interestingly, the program allows for flexibility beyond handmade goods. Many students have previously opted to source a specific product, constructing their business models around marketing and selling these items instead. This approach further emphasizes that entrepreneurship is about more than just crafting; it encompasses marketing and sales skills as well.
Community Support
The financial backing for Kidovate comes from Community Futures Alberni-Clayoquot, which has strategically chosen Nanaimo as a central hub for students from the northern parts of Vancouver Island. This support underscores the community’s commitment to fostering young entrepreneurial talent.
Getting Involved
For those yet to explore the opportunity Kidovate presents, more information, including registration details for the upcoming market day, can be found on their website. It’s an open invitation to engage in a transformative experience that builds skills, confidence, and community spirit.
Stay Connected
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