VALDOSTA — The Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce will host an Acton Children’s Business Fair in April.

Acton Children’s Business Fair is a nationally recognized business fair that gives organizations the tools to run a business fair for young entrepreneurs, said Betty Morgan, vice president for business development.

The fair provides children the opportunity to launch a start-up business, Morgan said. Kids create a product or service, develop a brand, build a marketing strategy and open for customers for a one-day market fair.

On the one day the business will be open, the children will be able to make money, Morgan said. Prizes will be awarded and the judges will assess the children on best business potential, most creative idea and most impressive presentation.

The fair will be held 10 a.m-2 p.m., April 28, at the Valdosta Mall.

Parents are allowed to attend, but are not allowed to help the children in any way, Morgan said.

“We know that we need to create a perfect business ecosystem here,” she said. “Teaching our children about entrepreneurship is a sure way to create more jobs, and more businesses down the road. There is a the possibility out there that they could create a job, rather than take a job.”

Because the chamber is using a national platform, Morgan had to audition to bring the fair to town.

“I had to send them an audio tape of me explaining why we would like to bring them to the Valdosta area,” she said.

The event is open for children ages 11-17. Registration is still open. The cost to register is $20.

For more information or to register, call Morgan at (229) 247-8100, extension 234.

Jason Smith is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1257.