5 Young Kids Entrepreneurs and Their Startup Stories

Recent Teenage Entrepreneurs Who Started Successful Businesses

In the world of entrepreneurship, age is becoming increasingly irrelevant. In recent years, several teenage entrepreneurs have risen to prominence, proving that ambition and innovation are not bound by age. Here are five inspiring stories of teenage entrepreneurs who have not only started successful businesses but also made significant impacts in their respective industries.

1. Moziah Bridges – Mo’s Bows

Age When Started: 9

Moziah Bridges’ story began when he was just nine years old. Frustrated by the lack of stylish bow ties available for young boys, Moziah decided to take matters into his own hands. With the help of his grandmother, who taught him how to sew, he began creating his own bow ties. What started as a small project quickly grew into a thriving business, Mo’s Bows.

Moziah’s bow ties, characterized by their vibrant colors and unique patterns, caught the attention of fashion enthusiasts and media outlets alike. His big break came when he appeared on the TV show “Shark Tank,” where he secured a mentorship deal with Daymond John. With John’s guidance, Moziah expanded his brand, which now includes neckties, pocket squares, and other men’s accessories.

Mo’s Bows has been featured in various publications such as Forbes and Vogue, and Moziah has even designed custom bow ties for former President Barack Obama. His success at such a young age is a testament to his creativity, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.

2. Mikaila Ulmer – Me & the Bees Lemonade

Age When Started: 4

Mikaila Ulmer’s entrepreneurial journey started with a bee sting and a lemonade stand. At just four years old, Mikaila was stung by a bee twice in one week, which led her to learn more about bees and their importance to our ecosystem. Inspired by her new knowledge and her grandmother’s flaxseed lemonade recipe, Mikaila decided to create a product that would not only be delicious but also help save the bees.

She began selling her lemonade at local events, and the product quickly gained popularity. By the time she was nine, Mikaila had secured a $60,000 investment from Daymond John on “Shark Tank,” which helped her scale her business. Me & the Bees Lemonade is now available in major grocery stores across the United States, including Whole Foods and Kroger.

Mikaila’s commitment to social entrepreneurship is evident in her business model. A portion of the profits from Me & the Bees Lemonade is donated to organizations working to save honeybees. Her success has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Time magazine’s most influential teens.

3. Alina Morse – Zollipops

Age When Started: 7

Alina Morse was just seven years old when she came up with the idea for Zollipops, a line of sugar-free lollipops that are good for your teeth. The inspiration struck during a trip to the bank when the teller offered her a lollipop. Concerned about the effects of sugar on her teeth, Alina asked her father why there couldn’t be a candy that was both delicious and healthy.

With the help of her father and extensive research, Alina developed Zollipops using natural sweeteners like xylitol and erythritol, which are known to reduce acidity and prevent tooth decay. She started selling her lollipops at local stores and farmers’ markets, and the product quickly gained a following.

Zollipops are now sold in major retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, and Whole Foods. Alina’s innovative approach to creating a healthier candy option has been recognized by numerous awards, and she has been featured on shows like “The Today Show” and “Good Morning America.” Alina’s story is a powerful example of how a simple idea can turn into a successful business with the right combination of passion and perseverance.

4. Benjamin Kapelushnik – Benjamin Kickz

Age When Started: 16

Benjamin Kapelushnik, known as Benjamin Kickz, turned his passion for sneakers into a lucrative business. At the age of 16, Benjamin started

reselling limited-edition sneakers that he bought from retail stores and online releases. His eye for valuable sneaker designs and his ability to network with influential people helped him build a successful enterprise.

Benjamin’s big break came when DJ Khaled, a well-known music producer and sneaker enthusiast, became one of his clients. This endorsement propelled Benjamin into the spotlight, and he quickly became the go-to sneaker supplier for celebrities and athletes. His clientele includes stars like Drake, Travis Scott, and LeBron James.

Benjamin Kickz has not only made a name for himself in the sneaker resale market but also expanded his brand into apparel and accessories. He has been featured in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list and continues to grow his business through strategic partnerships and marketing initiatives. Benjamin’s success demonstrates the potential of niche markets and the importance of building strong relationships in business.

5. Rachel Zietz – Gladiator Lacrosse

Age When Started: 13

Rachel Zietz was 13 years old when she founded Gladiator Lacrosse, a company that produces high-quality lacrosse equipment. As a lacrosse player herself, Rachel noticed

a gap in the market for affordable yet durable lacrosse gear. Determined to fill this gap, she started her own company with the goal of providing top-notch equipment at reasonable prices.

Rachel’s initial product line included practice goals and rebounders, which quickly gained popularity among lacrosse players and coaches. Her products were praised for their durability and performance, helping Gladiator Lacrosse become a trusted name in the industry.

Rachel’s entrepreneurial skills and business acumen have been widely recognized. She has been featured in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” and Inc.’s “30 Under 30” lists, and she even appeared on “Shark Tank,” where she received valuable advice from the show’s investors. Under Rachel’s leadership, Gladiator Lacrosse has continued to expand its product line and reach new customers, proving that a young entrepreneur can make a significant impact in a competitive market.

Final Thoughts

These five teenage entrepreneurs exemplify the creativity, determination, and resilience that are essential for success in the business world. Their stories highlight the importance of identifying market gaps, leveraging personal passions, and staying committed to one’s vision. As they continue to innovate and grow their businesses, they serve as inspiring role models for aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages.