Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program Returns For Record-Breaking Third Year (Photo) - 05/28/26
Young entrepreneurs from across the Happy Valley/Clackamas community will gather at City Hall on May 28th to launch a year of business, mentorship, and community connection.
The City of Happy Valley, in partnership with the Happy Valley Business Alliance (HVBA), is proud to launch the third annual Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program with a kickoff event on Wednesday, May 28, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Happy Valley City Hall.
Now entering its third year, the program has reached a major milestone with a record-breaking number of applications-30 to be exact, making 2026 the largest and most successful year in the program’s history. In response to overwhelming community interest, the city has expanded participation opportunities to welcome as many young entrepreneurs as possible.
“This program is about more than running a business it’s about building confidence, learning new skills, and turning ideas into reality,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “It’s inspiring to see so many young people in our community step up this year. They represent the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Happy Valley such a special place.”
The Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program is a year-long initiative designed for students in grades K–12 throughout the Happy Valley and Clackamas community who want to transform their handmade products or services into real-world business experience. Through mentorship from local business leaders and hands-on selling opportunities at signature City events, participants gain practical skills in branding, pricing, customer service, marketing, and booth operations.
Kickoff Event TONIGHT-May 28th
The kickoff workshop is new this year and will bring together accepted entrepreneurs, parents, mentors, volunteers, and local business owners for an evening focused on learning, inspiration, and connection.
Mayor Tom Ellis will open the event alongside welcome remarks from Happy Valley Business Alliance President Rene Canler Guest speakers and local residents: Eric Post of Huzi AI, and his daughter Alyssa Post of Oregon State University will share insights on entrepreneurship, branding, and goal-setting.
2026 Selling Opportunities
Throughout the year, Youth Entrepreneurs will showcase and sell their products at several of Happy Valley’s signature community events, including:
- 4th of July Family Festival
- Summer Concert on August 20 featuring Fleetwood Mac tribute band Taken By the Sky
- Oktoberfest on October 3
- Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6
New this year, participants will also have an opportunity to set up a booth and sell at the Happy Valley Farmers Market on August 8.
The Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program continues to grow as a reflection of the community’s commitment to supporting young leaders, fostering creativity, and building meaningful connections between youth and local businesses. Through the partnership between the City of Happy Valley and the Happy Valley Business Alliance, the program provides students with real-world opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to our vibrant community.
