Lemonade Day teaches children the value of entrepreneurship

On June 9, kids across the state of Alaska will participate in a program to help teach them the value of small business and leadership by setting up their own lemonade stands outside their houses, in parks or even outside other local small business.

The Lemonade Day organization, started in Alaska in 2011, is hosted this year by the Alaska Small Business Development Center.

The participants are allowed to keep all their personal earnings, but are encouraged to set aside some of the profit for savings and charity.

“The program encourages them to spend a little of what they’ve earned - because they’ve earned it - save a little, and even share a little,” said Harley Tennant, Lemonade Day Manager.

In 2017, out of the 2,245 kids who participated, $205,900 in profits were earned. Out of the total profit, 40% of the money was voluntarily given to charity by the lemonade stand owners.

The Nome community alone raised $3,000 and chose to donate the entire sum to a needy person in their town.

“Lemonade Day Alaska has helped thousands of kids across the state learn financial literacy and discover that running their own business is a viable career choice. From Utqiagvik to Ketchikan, kids across Alaska have shown that they are amazingly entrepreneurial and innovative and I’m proud for the Alaska SBDC to be a part of that,” said Alaska SBDC Executive Director, Jon Bittner in a press release.

Tennant expects the number of participants in 2018 to meet the number of last year’s turnout. The program was originally open to K-5, but due to broad interest, is now open through 12th grade as well.

Those who wish to participate have until Friday, June 8 to sign up at https://lemonadeday.org/alaska. Materials can be picked up at the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce for Mat-Su Valley residents, and the Alaska Small Business Development Center for Anchorage residents. Resources can also be found online upon registration.