PALM COAST, Fla. – While Silicon Valley stereotypes suggest startup success is a young person’s game—usually pegged to tech founders in their mid-to-late 20s—research from the Harvard Business Review (2018) found the average age of a successful startup founder is actually between 35 and 45. But if the Children’s Business Fair in Palm Coast is any indicator, dozens of aspiring CEOs aren’t waiting that long to get their start.

Hosted on June 28 at the Palm Coast Community Center, the third annual event, organized by Chef Maria Delgado of Culinary Wellness, spotlighted nearly 30 young businesses, all founded and operated by entrepreneurs under the age of 18.

“We have such amazing entrepreneurs and youth in our community that a lot of people don’t even know live here,” said Delgado. “It’s been an amazing growth, and I’m completely thrilled.”

Man with a Plan

Among the standout exhibitors was 17-year-old Peter Melendez, founder of Pistol Pete’s, a professional auto detailing service he launched at age 16. Over the past year and a half, Melendez has turned his vision into a profitable venture with a loyal, growing client base.

With sharp branding and even sharper service, Melendez has his eyes set on expansion. “I’m always trying to find ways to grow. This is just the beginning,” he shared, adding that the business fair offered a unique platform to engage with new customers and judges alike.

Fresh Ideas in Bloom

It’s not every day you find a fresh flower bar at a youth business fair, but Olivia Willems came prepared. The founder of BlümBar, Olivia filled her booth with fresh blooms, potted plants, floral-themed tumblers, and woven keychains. Her concept? Bring floral joy to events—big or small.

“We were brainstorming ideas for this, and it was one of the ideas,” said Olivia, who’s just a month into business. “This event helps us get more customers.”

Standing nearby, her older brother Anthony chimed in, “Having a small business can turn into a big business. Here we get to meet all these new people.”

Their mom, Melinda Willems, was clearly proud.

“They eventually want to do bookings—bridal showers, baby showers, get-togethers,” she explained. “It’s so nice to see that at the end of the day, they’re there to support each other.”

Creativity Unleashed

The creativity on display stretched well beyond traditional products. Stella Brown, founder of Bugz Creations, drew plenty of attention for her hand-crafted Dino Masks, Therian Masks, and foam headwear. With over 11,000 Instagram followers, her creations already have an online fanbase—and at the fair, one customer proudly wore a custom mask right at her booth.

Another mask-maker, Feline Facades, brought a unique feline twist to her craft—Black cats, Calicos, Tabbies, and even Alien cats. Each booth stood as a testament to out-of-the-box thinking.

Returning for her second year, Elise Emberley of Chic Shells showcased sea glass-framed artwork. Nearby, author Caylee Dickensheet signed copies of her book, The Lonely Rainbow—a story that, she was quick to note, “has a happy ending.”

“At first when I started, I didn’t even know I was going to do this,” Caylee shared. She is proactive about marketing her business.

“I give out business cards that have my Etsy page and my Instagram page.”

Sweet Success

Business fairs naturally attract bakers, and this year was no exception. Lynnsie’s Sugar Shack and The Sweet Toof were crowd favorites, delighting judges and shoppers alike with their luscious treats.

Shoppers with a sweet tooth for style also had options. See Me Shine by Darcie Johnston offered handmade bracelets, while Kaitlyn Whitfield of Junked by Kait showcased eye-catching, custom phone cases.

From edible goods to wearable art, there was something for everyone—and with awards like “Most Business Potential,” “Most Original,” and “Best Presentation” handed out by Delgado and a panel of judges, there was plenty of recognition for entrepreneurial excellence across every age group.

Palm Coast City Councilman Dave Sullivan, one of the local leaders in attendance, summed it up well.

“This is the future. I’m thrilled to be here to see our young people learning about business and what it’s like to deal with people. Young entrepreneurs—the future is here.”

Several of the winners will be showcased on the upcoming July 19th episode of Lifeline radio show on WNZF 94.9 FM and podcast, starting at 9:00 am.