Kidovate Expands Youth Entrepreneurship Program to Nanaimo and Victoria

Kidovate, a free youth entrepreneurship initiative run by the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business, is expanding its reach to include Nanaimo, British Columbia, in addition to its existing program in Victoria. This expansion aims to provide more young people on Vancouver Island with the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills and gain real-world business experience.

What is Kidovate?

Kidovate provides middle and high school students with a platform to explore entrepreneurial thinking and create value through the development of products, and services. Participants gain access to a free graphic novel-style workbook designed to guide them through the fundamentals of starting a business, as well as mentorship from students at the UVic Gustavson School of Business. The program culminates in a Market Day where students can sell their creations.

Market Day Details

Kidovate Victoria 2026 will be held on Saturday, April 11th at The Bay Centre in Victoria from 10am to 4pm. Registration opens February 1st at 4 PM. Registration link

Kidovate Nanaimo 2026 will be held on Saturday, April 18th at the Nanaimo North Town Centre Mall from 10am to 4pm. Space is limited, and registration is encouraged.

Participants receive a free table at Market Day to sell goods or services they have made, repurposed, or resold. Tables are assigned on a first-approach, first-served basis.

Program Growth and Impact

Kidovate has experienced significant growth since its inception, evolving from 26 participants to approximately 230 stalls at Victoria’s Bay Centre in 2025. Participants retain all profits from their sales and are encouraged to donate a portion to a non-profit organization of their choice. Some participants have generated over $1,000 in revenue at past events.

Key Program Components

• Free Registration: The program is free for all eligible students.
• Educational Workbook: A graphic novel-style workbook provides guidance on business startups.
• Mentorship: Students receive mentorship from UVic Gustavson School of Business students.
• Market Day: A platform to sell products and gain real-world experience.

How to Gain Involved

Students in grades 6-12 are eligible to participate. Those interested can register through the Kidovate website. For questions or to be added to an email list for updates, contact Brock Smith at smithb@uvic.ca.