Bunnies Galore: A young entrepreneur profile

October 2007

Amanda Carpenter started raising rabbits because she thought they were “cute,” but her focus changed as people started to ask her about purchasing them. She is now a budding entrepreneur and sells her stock to both local businesses and individuals through her own enterprise, “Bunnies Galore.”  She is a member of the Lentner Pioneers 4-H Club.

Amanda learned about raising rabbits through 4-H projects and workshops provided by MU Extension and Purina Foods. She also personally built several cages during 4-H activities, which she still uses. Her projects recently brought her Grand Champion honors for rabbits and showmanship at the County Fair.

Amanda has been raising rabbits for six years and selling them for three. She began her business with eight rabbits, and her herd has decreased to as low as three individuals, due to problems with summer heat. But since her initial challenges, she has grown the business into a viable operation. For example, she has hired part-time workers to take care of her stock when she is unable to do so. She turned a fourth grade class project in which the students created advertisements for a fictional business into real advertisements. She has earned enough money from “Bunnies Galore” that she plans to expand and upgrade her equipment and purchase all-season facilities for the rabbits.

Adult mentors have been important to Amanda’s success. Her parents have provided financial resources to get her started, assist with some of the work, and help keep track of records. Amanda also cites her gifted teacher, Mrs. Gingrich, as an inspiration to running her own rabbit business. “Start slow and plan it out before you go,” is the advice Amanda offers other young entrepreneurs. “Make sure you can deliver what you promised.”

Do you know a 4-H young entrepreneur? Send profile ideas to Adam Loftin, 4-H Center for Youth Development, (573) 884-7929 or acl7f4@mizzou.edu.

Article by Adam Loftin and Steve Henness