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Our story

It started with a few Austin families and one simple idea.

Children learn best by doing.

Jeff and Laura Sandefer

In 2007, Jeff and Laura Sandefer wanted to spark a sense of wonder and entrepreneurship in their children. With the help of a few other families, they held the first Acton Children's Business Fair in Austin, Texas. They enjoyed it so much they knew they had to share it.

The Founders Fair is a gift from the Sandefer family, founders of the nonprofit Acton Academy network, to young entrepreneurs around the world.

Since 2007

One fair became a movement.

5,011 Fairs
116,075 Entrepreneurs
856 Cities
35 Countries
Our programs

Two fairs. One idea: learning by doing.

Children's Business Fair logo

Children's Business Fair

Ages 6–17

One-day fairs for children to create and launch their own businesses. Their first step into the world of business.

Visit Children's Business Fair
Founders Fair logo

Founders Fair

Ages 14–18

One-day fairs where young founders launch real ventures, for entrepreneurs ready to take the next step.

Visit Founders Fair

Write the next chapter in your community.

Hosting is free. We share the playbook, the website, and the prize money. You bring the neighborhood.

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