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YOUTH MARKETPLACE & CREATIVE ENTERPRISE
Where young creators build culture, economy, and identity.
Experience the Expo through youth culture, creativity, belonging, and community.
Location:
Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport,
Independence Center B
2799 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, Virginia 22202
April 25, 2026 | 10 AM - 6 PM
What To Expect
The Youth Marketplace is a space where young entrepreneurs, artists, makers, designers, storytellers, and vision builders share their work with the world.
Not as “future leaders.”
As leaders now.
[ Apply to Exhibit ]
[ Join the Interest List ]
What the Marketplace IS
This is not a vendor row.
And not a school fair.
It is a curated cultural marketplace where youth:
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Present their work with dignity
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Open conversations about their creative identity
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Build relationships with collaborators, buyers, and supporters
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Generate real income and brand visibility
The Marketplace honors:
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Craft
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Cultural memory
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Young creative economy
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Agency and independence
Your work has value. Your voice has value. Your story has value.
Booth Style
Each youth creator receives:
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One curated 6 ft. table + cloth
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Optional 8x10, 10x10, 10x15, 10x20, or 20x20 Booth Space
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Vertical display grid or easel (as needed)
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Signage panel with your name + brand
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Access to Youth Business Coaching Support Desk
The Marketplace is staged with:
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Warm lighting
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Real retail presentation
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Respectful spacing
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Atmosphere of craft + culture
This is professional. This is dignified. This is yours.
Who Can Participate
Youth ages 12–22 who create:
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Clothing / apparel / streetwear
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Jewelry, beadwork, metalwork, accessories
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Visual art / prints / illustration / digital art
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Sneaker and fashion customization
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Handmade crafts and cultural goods
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Books, zines, poetry, and media
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Beauty & self-care products (safe / approved)
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Tech, gaming, digital design, coded worlds
Military-connected and civilian youth are equally welcomed.
This is about community rising together.
Youth Enterprise Support
All Marketplace participants receive:
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Brand Story Coaching (How to talk about your work)
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Pricing & Value Workshop
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Peer-to-Peer Business Mentoring
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Optional digital portfolio feature on the MCWE website
Because youth economy is cultural economy.
Recognition & Visibility
Youth Marketplace creators receive eligibility for:
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Youth Enterprise Spotlight Feature
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America’s Torchbearers Showcase Exhibit Display
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Press, photography, and media story features
Because visibility is power.
Marketplace Stage moments (5 minutes every hour)
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Creator spotlights
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Micro-interviews
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Mini “brand runway” moments
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“Tell us your story” mic circles