Mikey or Mikey Knows Biz, is a driven, young entrepreneur who has managed to write a book, run his vending machine business and teach others, all by the age of 12! He opened his first business just wanting to make money but found himself inspiring other likeminded young people with his dream-big mentality! By teaching fundamental lessons in entrepreneurism, Mikey is helping develop the next generation of dreamers.

Impressed by the can-do attitude of this young dreamer, we asked Mikey some questions about his brand:

1) How would you best describe Mikey Knows Biz?

Mikey Knows Biz is my brand. I’m Mikey, a 12-year-old kid. I own a vending machine business Mikey’s Munchies Vending, I’m the author of best-selling children’s book ‘Mikey Learns About Business,’ and I love to teach my community all about financial education and entrepreneurship. 

“ The problem I was solving was a lack of financial education and entrepreneurship taught to young people in a way that we understand.”

2) Where is your business based? 

I’m based in St Louis, Missouri.

3)    How old were you when you founded Mikey Knows Biz?

I was 8 years old when I opened my first business, a lemonade stand, and people began calling me Mikey the Biz Kid. A few months later I started my vending machine business, Mikey’s Munchies Vending, and my dad’s friend started calling me Mikey Knows Biz. The name stuck!

“Dream big and don’t let anything stop you. Failure is a part of success. ”

4) What passions inspired your idea?

My vending machine business isn’t a passion as such. I really just wanted to make my own money. Although, I do love helping my peers understand that ‘little people can do big things too!’ I want all kids to know if I can do, they can too.

5) What problem were you solving in the creation of Mikey Knows Biz?

The problem I was solving was a lack of financial education and entrepreneurship taught to young people in a way that we understand.   

6) Who supported you in creating/building your business?

My parents, James and Arriel Biggs, my mentor Mr. Cortez and my community have been hugely supportive in helping me build my business.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring social entrepreneurs?

Dream big and don’t let anything stop you. Failure is a part of success.

8) To what extent would a platform like Kebloom have helped your achieve your dreams?

Kebloom helps highlight my story for other young entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs.

9) What has been the best part about running your business?

Making money in my sleep and making a positive impact on my community have been the best parts about running my business.

10) What skills did you bring to Mikey Knows Biz and feel you have developed over time?

I brought and also developed the skills of problem solving, money management, public speaking and understanding my value.

…and anything else you’d like to add!

Facebook: MikeyKNowsBiz and MikeysMunchiesVending 

Instagram: mikeyknowsbiz

About the Author:

Ellie McRae is the blogger, interviewer and content creator for Kebloom! When she’s not writing kick-ass articles, you’ll find her studying marketing and drinking copious amounts of coffee. Find out more about Ellie here.