News Summary
The fifth annual Kids Business Expo at the MeadowView Conference Resort showcased talented middle school students presenting innovative business ideas. With booths featuring unique products, awards highlighted creativity and business acumen among young individuals. Local community members engaged with these budding entrepreneurs, underscoring the event’s importance in fostering skills for future success. The expo served as a vibrant platform for students to gain exposure and network, hinting at promising futures for these young leaders in the business world.
Exciting Young Talent Shines at Kingsport’s Kids Business Expo!
On a vibrant Friday afternoon, the fifth annual Kids Business Expo took over the MeadowView Conference Resort and Convention Center in Kingsport! A flurry of energy filled the air as middle school students showcased their innovative business ideas and entrepreneurial spirit. This event is not just a fun outing for kids; it’s an amazing opportunity for young minds to pitch their creativity and business strategies to an excited public.
Creativity on Display
The expo featured a wonderful variety of booths, each providing a glimpse into the youthful imagination of its owners. One highlight was Teri Cosby of Crafting Queen, who displayed her unique creations that drew in curious onlookers. As attendees walked through the venue, they were greeted with an array of businesses, including Handmade Expressions, which earned the award for Highest Business Potential. This accolade went to Adelyn Stancel, who impressed judges and visitors alike with her remarkable handmade products.
A Melting Pot of Business Ideas
Among the many booths, twins Brooklyn and Morgan Pickup stood out with their business, Sweet Freeze, which specializes in delicious freeze-dried treats. Their Most Original Business Idea award speaks volumes about their innovative approach to snacks. Not to be outdone, Onjileah Holified captured hearts with her Paris-inspired business, Onjileah’s Desserts et Charmes, bringing home the prize for Best Presentation and Creativity.
The duo of Jack Weakley and Parker Hagan also received recognition for their meticulous planning in their photography business, PJ Photography, winning the award for Best Business Plan. Their teamwork and detailed execution proved that they know how to blend art with savvy business skills.
Treats and Treasures
Also at the expo, Vallen Cradic and Kennedy Burton proudly represented Beads & Bites, combining irresistible bite-sized treats with stylish beaded bracelets, while Dawson Hemling and Gracelyn Oaks showcased their delightful cupcakes at the DG Cupcake Factory booth. Custom-made jewelry creations from Izabella Sidney drew many admirers, each piece a little spark of personality. And let’s not forget Jensen Taylor, who presented his homemade soy candles, revealing that his venture has grown self-sustaining through sales at conventions!
The excitement didn’t stop there. Allie’s Treasures saw visitors delve into a world of beautiful jewelry curated by Allison Vaughn, adding more shine to this buzzing business fair.
A Platform for Future Entrepreneurs
The Kids Business Expo isn’t just about making sales; it’s an incredible platform that allows young entrepreneurs to network, gain exposure, and learn valuable lessons in the process. It’s heartwarming to see potential buyers exploring the booths, such as one keen customer curious about the offerings from Sweet Freeze, indicating a strong interest from the local community. This kind of interaction is crucial for the budding business stars of tomorrow.
Nurturing Future Leaders
As a whole, the Kids Business Expo is a phenomenal initiative aimed at fostering creativity, innovation, and business acumen among young individuals. It serves as an educational experience, encouraging these students to sharpen their entrepreneurial skills and prepare for a bright future ahead.
With such youthful talent on display, Kingsport can surely look forward to seeing what these young entrepreneurs will achieve in the years to come. Now that the event has wrapped up, one can only wonder how many of these creative kids will become the business leaders of tomorrow!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Johnson City Press: Kids Business Expo
- Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
- Johnson City Press: ETSU Education Meeting
- Google Search: Kingsport Kids Business Expo
- Johnson City Press: Children’s Miracle Network Telethon
- Google Scholar: Youth Entrepreneurship Programs
- Johnson City Press: Election Results
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business Expo
- Johnson City Press: Summer Concert Series
- Google News: Kingsport Youth Entrepreneurs

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


