Appleton girl named Youth Entrepreneur of Year

Allison Loderbauer of Appleton has been named the Ernst & Young Youth Entrepreneur 2008 award winner for Wisconsin.

Loderbauer is a Junior Achievement student and one of two youth entrepreneurs honored during the regional awards program in Minneapolis June 5.

The 22nd annual program has expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 135 cities in 50 countries throughout the world. Awards are given to entrepreneurs who demonstrate extraordinary success in the areas of innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Ernst & Young provides the Youth Entrepreneur award to encourage the next generation of business leaders that are being educated through Junior Achievement.

“We’re proud to recognize students like Allison and encourage educational opportunities that focus on business skills and leadership,” said Bill Miller, Ernst & Young Strategic Growth Markets partner.

Loderbauer founded a helium balloon business called ABC Balloons (ABC stands for Allison’s Balloon Company). She started the business in January 2006 and has seen growth in sales each year. With the money Allison earns she pays for inventory, advertisements and other incurred costs. Recently, Allison had to raise her prices due to a helium shortage, but because of her terrific customer service she has not seen a drop in sales. She manages to successfully obtain helium when her competitors cannot.

ABC Balloons provides both latex and mylar balloons to companies, individuals and special events, such as wedding receptions. As the owner, Allison manages her own invoices, sales tax receipts and checkbook.

“At a young age, Allison has grasped the spirit and meaning of entrepreneurship,” said Tim Greinert, president of Junior Achievement of Wisconsin. “Junior Achievement is committed to fostering an environment that helps students build these skill sets and open doors to future career opportunities.”