On December 3, FastStartDC, Durham College’s (DC) on-campus entrepreneurship center launched an online marketplace called the Start Market, showcasing some of the incredibly talented student entrepreneurs here at DC.

We see it every day – students coming to FastStart to turn their passion, craft or hobby into a business. With the rise in online-based businesses, the FastStart team is really excited to launch the Start Market and give the college community an opportunity to support our local entrepreneurs. While we have hosted holiday markets in the past, this new marketplace will be a year-round initiative that highlights student entrepreneurs who sell products as well as those that provide services, so if you’re looking for talented photographers, graphic designers, social media experts or content creators, Start Market has a dedicated section of freelance services offered by our students.

Earlier this fall, FastStartDC launched a new Maker2Market program to help participants get their businesses up and running in six weeks, providing DC’s student entrepreneurs an incredible opportunity to share with the world what they have to offer in time for the holiday shopping season. We’re excited to feature some of our recent Maker2Market program graduates in the online store.

The Start Market has something for everyone. You can enjoy ethically sourced coffee, roasted by Journalism student Andrew Neary from Kettleboy Coffee or check out some unique apparel from talented Data Analytics student Rita Aboagye-otoo of Aleaza Collections or Sustainable Stitches by our Animal Care student Meera Mohindra. If you are looking for art to brighten your space, or unique décor for your home or as a gift, check out Art Blizz by Vidhi Mehra, from DC’s Data Analytics program and City Lights Studio by Fine Arts student, Josiah Chung. Fill your home with warmth and light with a candle by Advertising student Shantel Loague-llewellyn at L’Amour Jae and pick up some treats for your furry friends from Sassypants Pets Bakery by PR & Strategic Communications student Afrika Nieves-Bentley.

FastStartDC’s alumni entrepreneurs also have some great gift ideas. Check out the incredible charcuterie boards from Katherine Polack, beautiful and timeless jewelry from Judda, incredible art pieces from Jasmine Rutschhman or sustainable apparel from our friends at 3eeHive.

Built and maintained by students, the Start Market is an innovative way to get first-hand experience at building an online enterprise. New businesses will be added regularly, so visit often to see the incredible offerings of DC’s talented entrepreneurs.