Fifty-three young entrepreneurs launched their businesses at the 4th annual TREP$ Marketplace held at Paradise Knoll School on Friday, February 27.  After six weeks of afterschool workshops and at-home business planning, it was time to meet the public at the West Milford Township elementary school's fleamarket-style venue.  The TREP$ program, currently offered in 16 area schools, was co-sponsored by the PTA and Lakeland Bank.

The ambitious 10- to 12-year-old participants had a firsthand taste of what business ownership is all about, including its challenges.  Matthew Romano, a fifth grader, experienced his obstacle in the early stages of the program.  "I broke my arm snowboarding right when TREP$ started.  With my arm in a cast, I knew I couldn't make a product like most of the other kids.  I had to find a product that I could buy and sell for a little more than I paid for it," he said.  The business model of buying wholesale and selling retail paid off.  Selling hundreds of "Smencils," scented pencils made out of 100% recycled material, Matthew profited $107 at the Marketplace.

Just like in the 'real world,' competition was a challenge for many of the vendors, especially those selling food items.  With fierce competition in the chocolate and baked goods arena, sole proprietor Steven White was able to set himself apart by selling pizza.  Partners Amanda Suegling and Brianna Smith drew a crowd of customers with the aroma from their freshly popped popcorn, and Allison Borrelli sold out of her homemade beef jerky.

Others recognized the opportunity that entrepreneurship can provide for giving back to causes that are important to them.  Alyssa Connors was able to raise $316 for Autism Speaks by successfully marketing her organic potting plants.  Charitable 6th grader Grace Lemanowicz followed suit by selling her own nature-inspired artwork and donating the proceeds to the Cloud Foundation, an organization dedicated to the preservation of wild horses.

The program facilitators, volunteers Pamela deWaal and Hayley Romano, were thrilled with the results.  "Even if this was their first and last business, all of the kids who participated can walk away with not only a basic understanding of entrepreneurship, but an ability to apply an entrepreneurial attitude to everything they do," commented Romano.  "Being able to recognize opportunities, generate ideas, create and operate new ventures, and think in a creative and critical manner will serve them well regardless of their eventual career path."