From sweet treats and beef jerky to skin care and scented candles, Meadowbrook High School students from the Academy for Developing Entrepreneurs showcased their own products for sale at the inaugural Monarch Market. More than a display of entrepreneurial spirit, the Monarch Market showcased student ingenuity, problem-solving and community building.

Many of the products are created by the students themselves and require a great deal of research, which the students conduct through sites like YouTube, as well as trial and error. For many, it can take months of work to have a product that is suitable for sale.

To build a successful business, it not only takes a good idea — it takes money. Thanks to the Chesterfield Education Foundation, which provided $5,000 toward the Academy for Developing Entrepreneurs through an Innovation Grant, these young entrepreneurs were able to have access to funds to purchase specialized equipment or resources they may not have been able to afford on their own.

Check out our latest video with interviews at the Monarch Market

and learn more about our student entrepreneurs on the

specialty center's website

.