The lemonade stand has evolved into a sophisticated business venture for tech-savvy youngsters in the 21st century. With the rise of cashless payments and the decline of pocket change, lemonade stands are going digital, and parents are witnessing a boom in sales. Programs like Lemonade Day are helping kids enhance their sales skills, teaching them not only about cashless payments but also how to craft a successful business model.
One shining example is Kyrei Hartsfield, a 9-year-old girl from Texas who has made an astonishing $7,000 in lemonade sales since she was 7 years old. Kyrei’s success story goes beyond just making money; it has also helped her develop customer service skills and come out of her shell. As a stroke survivor, Kyrei has named her business Stroke Survivor Lemonade & Co. and donates a quarter of her profits to the hospital that treated her. She has even attracted celebrity attention, with shoutouts from Shark Tank’s Daymond John and Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. Kyrei has expanded her brand nationally through online sales and trade shows, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit at a young age. She plans to continue growing her business and become her own boss.
Another talented lemonade entrepreneur is 11-year-old Amer Bharti from Kansas City, Missouri. Amer gained online fame for his unique lemonade recipe, which combined flavored syrups for a custom-made beverage. To launch his stand, Amer needed an investor as his savings didn’t cover all the operating costs. He did extra chores to help with the initial cash flow and worked hard to set up his stand for a homeowners association-wide garage sale. Amer’s success allowed him to contribute to a charity funding school lunches and save for college. He is now planning his next venture, striking a deal with a local convenience store to sell his lemonade, showcasing his determination and business acumen.
On Long Island, 7-year-old Lilly Farber is making waves in the cashless lemonade business. Learning important life lessons along the way, Lilly is already planning her next business venture—a curbside Halloweentime cider stand. Her mother believes these experiences are shaping Lilly’s goal of becoming an entrepreneur in the future. Lilly has also embraced philanthropy, donating some of her earnings to a cerebral palsy charity in honor of her brother. Her parents are proud of her accomplishments and have set up a savings fund for her future.
The rise of digital payment options and the integration of technology in lemonade stands is transforming the landscape of young entrepreneurship. Kids are not only learning valuable business skills but also leveraging social media, marketing, and online orders to promote their brands. Programs like Lemonade Day are empowering children to run their stands like legitimate businesses, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed for success. With over 55,000 children already signed up, Lemonade Day is paving the way for a new generation of savvy young go-getters.
