Start-Up Academy (Fall 2026)
Our popular Start-Up Academy is back for another exciting year! This program was created to teach tweens in grades 4–8 about financial responsibility and independence. Sixteen applicants will be selected to participate and gain experience in creating and running their own small businesses.
Library staff are there every step of the way, assisting and advising them as they prepare to sell their own products to the public. The culmination of attending the Start-Up Academy is the Start-Up Market, a craft fair where Academy participants can sell their merchandise to the public.
Participating in Start-Up Academy is a commitment for registered tweens and their parents. We encourage all interested patrons to attend the Parent Information Session on Monday, October 5. Between sessions, guardians are responsible for ensuring their tween is prepared for the next session. At the Parent Information Session, patrons will learn the details of this commitment.
We look forward to welcoming a new class of Start-Up Academy graduates!
Academy Dates
Parent Information Session
Monday, October 5, 6:30–7:30 p.m. (Drop in)
Adults will receive an outline of the commitments expected of participants, along with an application required to register for the Start-Up Academy and sell in the Start-Up Market.
Session One: Plan for Success
Wednesday, October 28, 4:30 p.m.
In this first session, you will learn about business plans and budgeting before putting your new knowledge to the test by running your own mock business. Food will be provided.
Session Two: Marketing Matters
Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 p.m.
Discover the importance of promoting products to customers. Use your marketing kits and Canva to design your own promotional materials for the Start-Up Market.
Session Three: Get Down to Business!
Thursday, November 19, 4 p.m.
Enjoy this workshop day where you can print promotional materials, ask for advice and preview the setup for the Start-Up Market.
Start-Up Market
Saturday, November 21, 11 a.m.
Today is the day! Set up your table and get ready to sell to real library patrons. Arrive between 11 a.m. and noon. An academy completion ceremony will take place at 12:30 p.m. The Start-Up Market is open to the public from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Application Process
Due to high demand, interested patrons need to apply for a spot in the Start-Up Academy and Market.
- Applications will be available online via Google Form after the Parent Information Session on Monday, October 5.
- All forms must be submitted by Monday, October 19 to qualify for consideration.
- Paper applications will be available at the Children’s Services and Vortex Desks.
- All applicants will be contacted by Wednesday, October 21 and informed whether they are on the registered list or the wait list.
- Please note: A submitted form does not guarantee a spot.