Winners of the program have the opportunity to showcase their businesses at the Holiday Gift Market, gaining visibility in front of thousands of shoppers and attracting potential customers. This event not only provides a platform for these entrepreneurs to display their products and services but also offers them a chance to engage directly with a large and diverse audience, receive immediate feedback, and build valuable customer relationships. Furthermore, the program provides financial assistance or grants to help participants scale their businesses. Overall, YEP equips young women entrepreneurs with the comprehensive tools and support they need to succeed in their ventures.

You’ve built something bold. Now let’s help you grow it. We can’t wait to hear your story.

Eligibility Checklist — Please confirm all of the following before submitting:

• I am between the ages of 21 and 40 at the time of the Holiday Gift Market.
• I am the majority owner of my business.
• I am not a current member of The Junior League of Tampa.

Please limit essay responses to 500 words or less.

The Holiday Gift Market is an intensive 3 ½ day retail shopping experience that takes place at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo and Entertainment Halls. 

The YEP winner will have the option of setting up their booth during the day either on Wednesday, Nov. 10th or Thursday, Nov 11th. Please note, set up must be complete prior to 4pm on Thursday in order to be ready for Preview Party that night. 

*HGM shopping hours are:

Thursday: VIP Preview Party 6pm - 10pm

Friday: 9am - 4pm  

Saturday: 9am - 6pm

Sunday: 9am - 4pm

You will have from 4pm - 8pm on Sunday to move out/tear down your booth.

* Times are subject to change. 

Please upload a Holiday Gift Market Business Plan and Photos that address all of the following:

• Have you ever been to The Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market- If so why do you think your business is a good fit and how does your product compare to the other products sold at the market?

• Please explain how your business is ready for the Holiday Gift Market.

• Have you ever been a merchant at a holiday or farmer’s market before? If so, please list the markets that you have participated in.

• What is your plan and strategy for booth design and showcasing your products? *All booths are 10x10.

• Will you have enough inventory and what amount of inventory do you anticipate will be enough? 

• Will you be able to set up and staff the entire event- What is your staffing plan?

• Please include a rough draft or visual representation of your booth design. If you have past booth photos from similar markets please include, as well as representative product photos.