Columbia City Connect kicked off the 2025 First Fridays season on May 2nd with something fresh, inspiring, and full of promise. Alongside the live music, the hum of downtown energy, and crowds exploring every corner, a new addition quietly stole the show: The LaunchPad Youth Entrepreneurial Market.
Tucked into the charming alley between Reinholt’s Furniture and Mattresses and the Government Center, The LaunchPad created a dedicated space just for young entrepreneurs, ages 5 to 18, to showcase their creativity, passions, and budding businesses. From colorful handmade crafts and crocheted animals to original artwork, stickers, and business ideas, each booth was a window into the imagination and determination of our community’s youth.
And what a debut it was.
The LaunchPad was met with enthusiastic support from both vendors and visitors. Columbia City Connect was thrilled by the vibrant atmosphere created by these young entrepreneurs. Their creativity and passion showcased the bright future ahead for our community. From handmade crafts and crocheted animals to original art and custom buttons, the level of thought, effort, and talent on display was truly impressive.
One proud parent, Laura Hicks, commented on Facebook:
“Thank you for hosting the LaunchPad youth market! My daughters and their friend had a great time selling their crocheted animals! This was a wonderful event with such a terrific turnout!”
We couldn’t agree more.
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the young vendors who brought their creativity and courage to the table. Thank you to the parents and guardians who helped make it happen, offering their time, support, and encouragement behind the scenes. And most of all, thank you to the community for showing up with such enthusiasm and positivity. Your support made this first LaunchPad experience truly unforgettable.
First Fridays has always been about more than just shopping or entertainment. It’s about connection, offering a place where ideas come to life, where neighbors come together, and where creativity is celebrated in every form. The LaunchPad embodied all of that and more.
Columbia City Connect invites you to mark your calendars for upcoming First Fridays events May through October. Each month will feature a fresh theme, new activities, and a continued commitment to spotlighting all the amazing talent in our community.
