Teens Mean Business: The Rise of Teen Entrepreneurship
Teens Mean Business: The Rise of Teen Entrepreneurship The rise of teenage entrepreneurship has been a noteworthy trend over the past decade. A report by the Small Business Administration found that in 2018, 9 out of 10 startups were owned by people aged 20-39, but an increasing number of teens are now launching their own ventures (SBA, 2019). Here is a slightly academic take on the key motivations driving teen entrepreneurs, the challenges they face, and important lessons for achieving success. Why Are More Teens Becoming Entrepreneurs? Desire for autonomy and independence A primary reason many teens start businesses is to gain a sense of control over their lives (Geldhof et al., 2014). Entrepreneurship allows them to set their own schedules, work at their own pace, and steer their own futures. This is especially appealing for teenagers who are still forming their identities and want to feel empowered. As a teen entrepreneur herself, Maya Penn says "Entrepreneurship is one of t...