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What advice does Jessica Cervantes give to teen entrepreneurs who are just starting out?


How did you decide to start your company?

As a Business and Entrepreneurship Academy student, I became involved with the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) program in 2007. NFTE is an organization that encourages students to “be their own boss” by teaching them how to build and manage their own business.



Taking notice of the national craze for cupcakes and my own passion for baking, I decided to create a business that incorporated both aspects.



After conducting ample research, I discovered the biggest drawback to cupcakes was their “messiness”. Parents often complained that cupcakes left frosting all over their children’s hands, which ultimately landed on sofas, walls, and floors.



I decided to solve this problem with a product I named Popsy Cakes. A Popsy Cake is an innovative and enhanced cupcake on an edible cookie stick that is completely non-messy and entirely edible.



With the help of NFTE, I created a business plan that demonstrated all aspects of my business, such as my business structure and yearly income statement. I became the First Place National Winner of the NFTE National Business Plan Competition out of 25,000 business students, and fulfilled my dream of owning my own business.



How do customers find out about your company?

After winning the NFTE National Business Plan Competition, my business has received a lot of publicity. Popsy Cakes has been featured in newspapers, magazines, radio shows, and television shows. This was definitely beneficial to the company as it was a very easy method of introducing the product to the public. I also do advertising in Miami, as my company is currently only local. Customers can find more information on the Web site: www.PopsyCakes.com

What are the best things about working for yourself?

Being an entrepreneur has opened up numerous opportunities that I would have never imagined I would experience. Besides the possibilities of achieving greater significant financial awards, I love the independence I have gained by becoming my own boss. Being able to make my own choices and accomplish tasks when I deem adequate have both drawn me to continue being an entrepreneur. I enjoy being in control of the operations and being able to modify things to my liking.



What are the hardest things about being an entrepreneur?

Time management! It has been extremely difficult managing college and my business at the same time as they both occupy a lot of my time.



What surprised you the most about being an entrepreneur?

All the networking opportunities entrepreneurs encounter. Many successful entrepreneurs have taken the time to help my business grow and expand without compensation. Although there is extreme competition to sell, in a way, everyone helps each other out.



What are your future goals for your company and for yourself personally?

I am currently obtaining patent and trademark protection for my product. I plan to license my product to various specialty bakeries all over the world. Popsy Cakes will be sold by various specialty bakeries that will have to compensate me with a percentage of the sales. This procedure allows me to gross a steady income while permitting me to continue with my education. I believe time management is vital and as long as I am able to manage my time accurately, I will be able to continue with my education and operate my business.



Do you have advice for teen entrepreneurs who are just starting out?

You should first believe in yourself and be confident that your business will be very successful in the future. Also, use all your resources! Get in contact with entrepreneurs from around your area and ask for help. You will be surprised to see how many individuals are willing to help you become successful. Networking is key to expanding your business and moving forward. Great connections will come in very handy at one point or another.

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
Jessica Cervantes’ advice to teen entrepreneurs:

- Believe in yourself and be confident that your business can succeed.
- Use all available resources.
- Reach out to local entrepreneurs and ask for help — many people are willing to support you.
- Network extensively; strong connections will help you grow and succeed.