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Homework time (groan). In this series, we explore the lives of ordinary kids with not-so-ordinary hobbies. Between soccer practice and school work and swimming lessons, these youngsters also run successful businesses—sometimes with a bit of grown-up help.*
As these remarkable kids were preparing to head back to school, they took time from their busy summer schedules to complete an extra homework assignment. They share some of their favorite things—from sloths and surfing to Marie Curie—and what it’s like to be the boss.
You’ll meet Gen Alpha and Gen Z superstars, including:
- The school-aged CEO of a kids’ jewelry company
- A kindergartener who hates school but loves Spider-Man and making bath bombs
- One of three young brothers who founded a candle company that gives back to those who are homeless
- A STEM-obsessed 10-year-old inventor and public speaker
- Two brothers leveling up their love of the ocean
💡 Get inspired to help your own youngster explore the world of entrepreneurship with our list of 12 business ideas for kids.
Illustration by João Fazenda*You must be 18 years of age or older to sign up for Shopify
Read more
- How This Indie Game Made 60% of Its Annual Merch Revenue in 30 Days
- Redefining Local- Small-Batch Producers Collaborate to Disrupt the Grocery Industry
- Blog to Business- How Black Girls RUN! Began a Community-Powered Movement
- Overdraft- KOTN’s Founder Talks Hard Times and Soft Shirts
- Overdraft- How AnaOno’s Founder Got Back to Black
- Community and Competition- Inside the Mind of a 19-Year-Old Founder
- Cartoons and Coding- Inside the Mind of an 11-Year-Old Founder
- How Tibetan Monks and Cross-Country Moves Inspired This Artist’s Journey
- Refurbishing the Rust Belt- Founder Stories from Detroit
- Honeybunch Shop- A Soap Making Business Success Story
Kids Entrepreneurship FAQ
What age can kids start their own business?
There's no set minimum age for starting a business—many kids begin as young as 8 or 9 with a parent's guidance, while teens often manage more of the process independently. What matters most is genuine interest, since real passion helps a young entrepreneur push through setbacks along the way.
Do kids need a parent's involvement to run a business legally?
Yes—minors generally can't sign binding contracts, so a parent or guardian typically needs to co-sign agreements and handle the legal side of the business. Most kid-run businesses operate as a sole proprietorship under the parent's name until the child turns 18, which keeps the legal structure simple while a parent carries the responsibility for any liabilities.
What skills does running a business teach kids?
Running a small business teaches kids skills far beyond making money, building accountability for customers and finances, stronger work ethic, and greater confidence in handling challenges. Interacting with customers and suppliers also sharpens communication, while earning and saving their own money lays a foundation for lifelong financial literacy.
Do young entrepreneurs have to pay taxes or get a business license?
Yes, in many cases—if a child's earnings exceed the IRS threshold for self-employment income, they may need to file taxes, and licensing requirements depend on the business type and location. Food-related businesses are more likely to need a permit, while many hobby-based ventures like crafts or tutoring don't. A tax professional can clarify specifics for a family's situation.
How can parents support a child's business without taking over?
Parents can support young entrepreneurs best by letting the business idea come from the child rather than dictating it, then stepping back so kids make the key decisions themselves. Parents can still point out risks and help weigh pros and cons, keeping veto power when money is on the line, but the final call should belong to the child.
What are good first business ideas for young entrepreneurs?
Time-tested options like pet care, tutoring, and lawn care remain solid starting points for young entrepreneurs because they require little startup money and teach real responsibility fast. The internet has also opened up new paths—simple website builders and platforms like YouTube let kids sell products or share content with an audience far beyond their neighborhood.
