First Friday Weekends in Kansas City are a big deal. Held in the Crossroads Arts District, they’re a massive open-air event packed with local artists, food trucks, performers, small brands, and hundreds of curious folks. It’s not just an art walk—it’s a full-on business opportunity.
Thousands show up every month. That means foot traffic, sales, followers, and real exposure. If you’ve got a product or service that stands out, First Friday is your chance to prove it. The vibe is creative, energetic, and perfect for side hustlers, hobbyists, or first-time entrepreneurs testing the waters.
But here’s the catch: you need to come prepared. There’s real competition, and everyone is trying to catch the eye of the crowd. The right booth can make you stand out—but that takes planning and money.
Why a Booth at First Friday is Worth the Investment
First Friday isn’t just “nice to have” exposure—it can be a launchpad. Here’s why the booth is worth the money:
- Massive foot traffic. You get exposure to people who love buying local and discovering new stuff. Some vendors report selling out in a single night.
- Direct customer feedback. You get to talk to people in real life. You’ll learn what clicks, what needs work, and what people are willing to pay for.
- Build your following. If someone doesn’t buy, they might follow your Instagram, sign up for your newsletter, or tell a friend.
- It is low-entry compared to retail. A booth here costs less than renting a shop or a permanent market stall. Think of it as field-testing your idea in public.
Done right, this one booth could be the start of something much bigger.
Estimated Costs of Launching a Booth
Let’s break down the costs of setting up a booth so you know what to expect. It’s not just about paying for a spot—you’ll have startup and ongoing expenses. Typical booth costs:
- Booth fee. $50–$150 per event (varies by location and event organizer)
- Tables, tent, and display setup. $150–$400 (one-time)
- Signage and branding materials. $50–$150
- Product packaging and inventory. $200–$500+
- Payment setup (like Square Reader). $0–$50
- Business license/permit (if needed). $50–$100
- Estimated total startup cost. $500 to $1,200*
Types of Business Financing
Now, let’s talk about money—specifically, how you get it.
Personal Savings and Bootstrapping
This is the most common path. Using your money means no debt, obligations, or full control. Even $300–$500 from savings or side work can be enough to get started. It’s the leanest way to test your idea without borrowing.
Friends and Family Support
If you’ve got someone close who believes in what you’re doing, a small loan or gift from friends or family can help. Just be clear about expectations. Use a basic agreement (like a promissory note) to keep things clean.
Small Business Loans and Microloans
Traditional banks usually don’t give loans this small, but:
- Local credit unions;
- Community development groups;
- Nonprofits.
- Microloans up to $500.
Credit Cards and Lines of Credit
Risky? Yes. But if you have a credit card with a manageable limit, it can cover booth basics. Just don’t overdo it. Keep your balance low and aim to pay it off monthly. It’s best for short-term gaps, not your full launch budget.
Grants and Local Funding Programs
Check for small business grants in Kansas City. Some local art councils, economic development groups, and minority entrepreneur programs offer one-time funds or contests for startups. These can be competitive but worth applying for. Look at:
Crowdfunding and Community Fundraising
Do you have a strong social circle or online following? Platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, or Indiegogo can help you raise a few hundred dollars fast. Be real, show your idea, and give small perks or updates to people who pitch in.
How to choose the right financing option
The best option depends on:
- Your risk comfort. Are you okay with using a credit card, or would you rather stick with savings?
- Your timeline. Need money fast, or can you wait for a grant?
- Your goal. Are you testing an idea or building a brand?
If you’re just dipping your toe in, try using savings, crowdfunding, or borrowing small from someone you trust. If you’re already building momentum, small loans or local grants can help you grow fast.
Budgeting for Startup and Operational Costs
Here’s a simple way to break your booth budget into parts:
- 60% Inventory (product, packaging)
- 20% Display setup (table, tent, signs)
- 10% Event costs (booth fee, permits)
- 10% Extras (emergency funds, promo items)
Track everything—even snacks you buy for booth helpers. The more you know where your cash is going, the smarter you can plan.
Financial Planning for the First Three Months
Think beyond just the first event. Plan for at least three First Friday weekends:
- Month 1. Setup + launch
- Month 2. Reinvest profits in better display, more inventory
- Month 3. Test promotions, maybe expand or add help
Write down:
- Expected costs
- Expected income (even just a guess)
- What you’ll reinvest vs. what you’ll save
This helps you avoid overspending and makes sure your business starts growing right.
Tips to Manage Cash Flow During the Event Cycle
Follow these tricks to improve your cash situation:
- Track sales in real time. Use a simple POS app to see what’s selling and what’s not.
- Separate personal and business funds. Open a free business checking account (many local banks offer one).
- Keep a “float” fund. Always set aside at least $100–$200 for emergencies or opportunities.
- Reinvest smart. Don’t spend profits on random upgrades. Ask: Will this bring in more customers or make sales smoother?
Local Resources and Support Organizations in Kansas City
You’re not alone. KC has some solid groups helping new business owners:
- KCSourceLink – Events, funding help, free mentorship
- AltCap – Loans, grants, and financial coaching
- Made in KC – Great resource and potential partner
- The Porter House KC – Support for minority entrepreneurs
- Crossroads Community Association often has info on First Friday vendors and permits.
How to Measure the Success of Your Booth Investment
Money is one thing, but look at the big picture:
- Did you make a profit? Even $50 counts in month one.
- Did you grow your following? Social media, email signups, repeat customers?
- Did people like your stuff? Honest feedback is worth gold.
- Did you learn what works? Pricing, packaging, booth setup, and customer flow.
Track it all in a simple Google Sheet or notebook. After a few months, you’ll know if this is just a side hustle—or something worth going all in on.
Wrap Up
You don’t need a giant budget to get started. You just need a solid plan, a little hustle, and support. Whether it’s your first booth or your tenth, First Friday Weekends are a powerful way to test your idea, build your brand, and make real money. Start small. Keep it simple. And most importantly—show up.