Mineola Middle School became an incubator for new business ideas at the second annual Entrepreneur Expo on June 2. The event was part of the Special Education Parent Teachers Association (SEPTA) Carnival held at the district’s Jackson Avenue School and attended by members of the community.

The fourth, fifth and sixth grade learners were responsible for creating their own business plans, seeking investors and producing products to sell. Following the event, they were required to repay their loans in full before they could pocket any of their profits. They also donated 10% of their net sales to SEPTA.

The Mineola Middle School Entrepreneur Expo featured over 30 student-launched businesses, which ranged from food vendors and gifts to art and video games. The purpose of this event is to encourage students to practice real-world skills in a safe and fun environment.