The world has changed, and so has the way young people are making money. While past generations of teens might’ve settled for mowing lawns or flipping burgers after school, today’s go-getters are using technology, creativity, and entrepreneurial grit to stack their coins. And they’re not just earning pocket change—they’re building brands, launching products, and cashing in millions before they’re even allowed to vote.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to five of the wealthiest American teen entrepreneurs, reveal how they built their empires, and break down what makes them stand out in today’s business world. Their journeys prove that with the right mix of passion, platform, and persistence, age really is just a number when it comes to success.
Table of Contents
The Shrinking Teen Workforce in America
The Shift in Teen Employment Trends
Not long ago, nearly every American teenager had a summer job. Whether it was lifeguarding, babysitting, or working the register at the local grocery store, work was a rite of passage. Fast forward to today, and things look dramatically different. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the percentage of working teens has dropped from over 50% in the early 2000s to just a little over one in three.
Why the decline? Well, it’s a mix of more academic pressure, extracurricular activities, and, quite frankly, a shift in how teens view work. A growing number of teenagers are turning to digital platforms, freelancing gigs, and self-employment over traditional part-time jobs.
Why Entrepreneurship Appeals to Today’s Youth
Let’s face it—today’s teens are tech-savvy, socially aware, and deeply entrepreneurial. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have lowered the barriers to entry. Anyone with a smartphone and an idea can start a business, build an audience, and generate income. There’s also the glamor of being your own boss, setting your own hours, and potentially earning way more than a minimum wage paycheck.
For many teens, entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money—it’s about expressing themselves, solving problems, and building something that’s theirs. These five young moguls we’re about to meet embody that mindset.
Donald ‘Donlad’ Dougher – The Self-Proclaimed Richest Kid in America
The Rise of ‘Laditors’ and YouTube Stardom
Donald Dougher, better known online as “Donlad,” is not your typical teenager. At the age of 15, he declared himself the “Richest Kid in America,” and while some may have scoffed, the numbers didn’t lie. His YouTube channel had already grown to over 600,000 subscribers, and he was reportedly earning as much as $20,000 a month from his content.
His secret sauce? Viral content. Donlad became famous for challenge videos, prank wars, luxury lifestyle vlogs, and wild giveaways. His fans—lovingly known as “Laditors”—tuned in regularly to watch his over-the-top adventures, which often featured flashy cars, mansions, and shopping sprees. His videos weren’t just entertaining—they were aspirational. He sold the dream, and his audience bought in.
Building a Brand Through Viral Content and Luxury
What set Donlad apart from other teen content creators was his branding. Everything about him screamed “young, rich, and thriving.” Whether he was throwing stacks of cash at strangers or racing Lamborghinis, he knew how to get attention. And attention online equals revenue—from YouTube ad income to brand partnerships.
While he’s taken a break from uploading recently, Donlad has already done what many adults haven’t—built a recognizable personal brand that opened doors to financial freedom. As of now, his estimated net worth sits at around $1.2 million.
Isabella Barrett – From Pageants to Profits
Fame Through Reality TV: ‘Toddlers and Tiaras’
Isabella Barrett first caught the world’s eye on the controversial TLC show Toddlers and Tiaras, where she shined in glitzy dresses and big hair. While many of her peers faded into the background after the show’s popularity waned, Isabella used her platform as a launchpad for a thriving business career.
By the age of 9, Isabella had already become a millionaire—yes, you read that right.
Glitzy Girl: Jewelry Empire at Age 9
Her first major venture was Glitzy Girl, a line of kid-friendly jewelry and accessories designed with the same glammed-up aesthetic that made her famous. The business was a huge hit. She tapped into a niche market of young girls who wanted to look and feel like beauty queens, just like Isabella herself.
By 2016, she had successfully sold the company and used the profits to invest in other ventures. Her early business savvy proved she was more than just a reality TV star—she was a serious young entrepreneur.
House of Baretti: Her New Fashion Frontier
Now nearing 18, Isabella has rebranded herself once again—this time in the high-fashion world. She launched the House of Baretti, a luxury fashion label focused on bold, edgy pieces for Gen Z fashionistas. From reality TV to runway, Isabella has transformed her childhood fame into a multi-stream income model.
Her estimated net worth? Around $2 million. Not bad for someone who started out in tiaras and tap shoes.
Alina Morse – The Girl Who Made Candy Good for Your Teeth
The Origin of Zolli Pops
Alina Morse’s story starts with a question that only a curious 7-year-old could ask: “Why can’t we make a lollipop that’s actually good for your teeth?” She had just been offered a sugary treat at the bank, and her parents—concerned about cavities—told her to say no. But instead of just moving on, Alina got to work.
Together with her dad, she researched ingredients and food science. The result? Zolli Pops, a sugar-free candy that not only tastes good but also helps clean your teeth. Genius, right?
Turning a Healthy Idea Into a Sweet Empire
Zolli Pops are now available in major retailers like Walmart, Whole Foods, and Amazon. The brand has exploded, becoming the top-selling sugar-free candy in the U.S. And it’s not just about the candy—Alina has used her platform to promote dental education in schools and encourages kids to take ownership of their health.
Now 19, she runs a multi-million-dollar company and regularly gives talks about entrepreneurship. Her estimated net worth is $6 million—and growing.
Evan Moana – The Family Business of YouTube
Toy Reviews, Science Experiments & Millions of Views
Evan Moana, the young star behind the wildly successful YouTube channel EvanTubeHD, is a perfect example of what happens when creativity meets consistency. Evan launched his channel when he was just 5 years old, and by the time he turned 8, he was earning an eye-popping $1.3 million a year.
What makes Evan’s content so compelling? It’s a blend of fun and learning. The videos range from toy unboxings and video game commentary to DIY science experiments and family-friendly challenges. Evan’s personality shines through every frame—he’s relatable, enthusiastic, and just downright fun to watch. Parents love the clean content, and kids can’t get enough of his high-energy videos.
Evan’s success isn’t just about him, though. His entire family is involved, helping him shoot, edit, and market his videos. It’s a full-on family business, and the results are impressive: over 7 million subscribers and a net worth that’s now estimated to be around $12 million.
EvanTubeHD: Turning Playtime Into Paytime
Evan’s story is proof that playing with toys can be serious business. Beyond YouTube ad revenue, he’s earned income through merchandise, sponsorships, and even voice acting gigs. He’s turned his childhood passions into a money-making machine, while still keeping the joy alive in what he does.
Unlike many other kid creators, Evan has managed to stay grounded despite his fame. His parents have prioritized education and balance, making sure he’s not just a YouTube star but also a well-rounded young man. That’s a key reason why his brand has remained strong for more than a decade.
At 19, Evan is already a veteran in the content creation space, and with such a solid foundation, his future prospects are limitless.
Ryan Kaji – The YouTube Billionaire Kid
How Ryan’s World Became a Global Brand
Ryan Kaji is the undisputed king of kid creators. He began his journey at just 4 years old when he filmed his first YouTube toy review. Fast forward a few years, and his channel Ryan’s World now has over 38 million subscribers and billions of views.
But Ryan didn’t stop at YouTube. In 2018, he became the first digital creator to launch his own branded toy line. That move turned his digital fame into real-world revenue. His face is now on everything from action figures to backpacks, toothpaste to pajamas—his brand is absolutely everywhere.
The expansion into retail was massive. In just a few short years, Ryan’s toy line has generated over $1 billion in retail sales. That’s billion with a B.
Beyond YouTube: Movies, Merch, and Multimillion-Dollar Deals
Ryan and his family didn’t just stop at toys and videos. They’ve grown the Ryan’s World empire to include educational content, video games, mobile apps, and even a full-length feature film titled Ryan’s World the Movie: Titan Universe Adventure. The movie is a blend of action, adventure, and learning, perfectly mirroring Ryan’s unique brand of edutainment.
While the exact figure of Ryan’s net worth is not public, experts estimate it to be well over $100 million. That puts him in a league of his own—not just as a teen entrepreneur, but as one of the most financially successful digital influencers of all time.
Ryan’s story is proof that with the right combination of talent, timing, and marketing, a simple idea (like reviewing toys) can evolve into a billion-dollar empire.
Common Traits of Teen Millionaires
Early Exposure to Media and Business
One striking similarity among these young moguls is their early exposure to the world of media and business. Whether it was starting a YouTube channel, walking a pageant runway, or brainstorming with their parents, each of these teens was immersed in their craft from a young age.
Starting early gave them an advantage. They learned the ropes of branding, content creation, and product development before most kids even learn algebra. And with platforms like YouTube and TikTok making content distribution easier than ever, they had access to global audiences without needing traditional gatekeepers.
They also had something even more crucial—support. Behind every teen millionaire is a parent or mentor helping to guide the way, handle logistics, and keep things grounded.
Strong Parental Support and Guidance
Supportive families played a huge role in the success of these teen entrepreneurs. Alina Morse’s dad helped her develop a tooth-friendly lollipop. Evan Moana’s family turned their YouTube project into a collaborative venture. Ryan Kaji’s parents oversee the massive Ryan’s World empire.
These parents weren’t just spectators—they were active partners. They handled legal contracts, managed business opportunities, and ensured their kids had a balance between work, school, and play.
That kind of guidance is crucial. Fame and fortune at a young age can be overwhelming. But with the right foundation, it becomes a launching pad for long-term success rather than a flash-in-the-pan moment.
What Teens Today Can Learn from These Young Entrepreneurs
Ideas Can Come from Anywhere
If there’s one lesson every teen can take from these stories, it’s that big ideas often come from small moments. Alina Morse saw a problem with sugary candy. Ryan Kaji just liked watching toy reviews. Isabella Barrett turned her love for fashion into a million-dollar jewelry business.
You don’t need a massive investment to start. What you need is curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to take the first step. Whether it’s a simple YouTube video, an Etsy shop, or a lemonade stand with a twist, entrepreneurship is about spotting opportunities and running with them.
Age Is Not a Limitation in Business
Let’s bust the myth right here: you don’t have to be an adult to be a successful entrepreneur. These teens prove that age isn’t a barrier—it’s often a benefit. Being young gives you a fresh perspective, tons of energy, and the ability to connect with your peers authentically.
Today’s digital world is more open than ever before. You can sell digital art, design apps, start a podcast, or even invent a new product—all from your bedroom. The resources are out there. The audience is ready. All that’s missing is your idea.
The Role of Social Media in Modern Teen Entrepreneurship
YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram as Business Tools
Social media has completely revolutionized the way teenagers can earn money. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have turned from casual entertainment apps into legitimate business launchpads. And for teen entrepreneurs, they offer a unique edge—direct access to millions of potential fans, customers, and sponsors.
Let’s take Ryan Kaji and Evan Moana for example. Their empires were built primarily on YouTube. Their massive followings allowed them to attract brand deals, generate ad revenue, and promote their own product lines. Similarly, Donald Dougher and Isabella Barrett leveraged Instagram and TikTok to connect with fans and expand their personal brands.
Social platforms eliminate the traditional barriers to entry that used to exist. Teens no longer need big budgets, industry connections, or formal training. All they need is a smartphone, some creativity, and a bit of hustle. Consistency and authenticity go a long way on social media—and these young entrepreneurs proved just that.
Going Viral = Going Global
Virality is the golden ticket. A single video, dance, prank, or product demo can go viral overnight and turn a regular teenager into a household name. That kind of visibility used to take years (or a massive marketing budget) to achieve.
This democratization of fame means that any teen with a smart idea and some social savvy can start building a brand from scratch. Whether it’s silly pranks, DIY tutorials, or behind-the-scenes business content, there’s an audience for just about everything.
Teen entrepreneurs today understand that personal branding is as important as the business itself. They’re not just selling products—they’re selling their personality, their journey, and their values.
Challenges Faced by Teenage Entrepreneurs
Balancing Fame, School, and Mental Health
It’s not all sunshine and paychecks. Being a young entrepreneur, especially in the public eye, comes with its fair share of challenges. Juggling school, business obligations, public scrutiny, and social life can be incredibly overwhelming.
Many of these teen moguls had to learn early how to manage stress, time, and public criticism. Even with supportive parents, navigating fame is tricky. One wrong move online can turn into a PR nightmare, especially when millions of followers are watching your every step.
There’s also the emotional weight of “keeping up” with content schedules, product launches, and fan expectations. Burnout is real—even for kids.
Teen entrepreneurs like Ryan Kaji have openly shared how their families limit filming days and emphasize school and downtime. That balance is key to making sure their success doesn’t come at the cost of their childhood or mental health.
Legal Hurdles and Financial Management
There are also legal and financial hurdles. Most teens can’t sign contracts, manage bank accounts, or handle tax issues without adult supervision. As a result, having trustworthy adults in their corner becomes essential.
And let’s be honest: handling millions at age 12? That’s a huge responsibility. Without smart financial planning, it’s easy to overspend or mismanage funds. Fortunately, many of these young stars have financial advisors to help them budget, invest, and prepare for the future.
What the Future Holds for These Teen Tycoons
From Teenage Stars to Lifelong Entrepreneurs
What’s next for these teen prodigies? Well, the future looks incredibly bright. Some of them may evolve into adult business moguls, creating new companies, launching startups, or mentoring the next generation of creators.
Alina Morse has already expanded her candy empire into global markets. Ryan Kaji is moving into entertainment and education spaces. Isabella Barrett is building her own fashion house. And Evan Moana, with over a decade of experience under his belt, could easily pivot into film, education, or tech.
These teens aren’t just flashes in the pan—they’re laying foundations for long-term careers. With millions already in the bank and global recognition on their side, they have the freedom to explore whatever passions they want next.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Creators
More importantly, they’re inspiring millions of other kids and teens to chase their dreams too. When young viewers see someone their age building a business or starring in a movie, it lights a fire inside them. It sends the message: You can do this too.
And that ripple effect? It’s changing the world of entrepreneurship forever.
Conclusion
Teen entrepreneurship in the U.S. is evolving rapidly, thanks to technology, social media, and a shift in how we view business. These five young moguls—Donald Dougher, Isabella Barrett, Alina Morse, Evan Moana, and Ryan Kaji—are living proof that age is no barrier to success.
They’ve built empires from creativity, curiosity, and boldness. Whether through YouTube, fashion, candy, or toys, they took their passions and turned them into profit. And while the money is impressive, what’s more inspiring is their work ethic, resilience, and drive.
Their stories teach us that big success often starts with small ideas—and a whole lot of hustle. So whether you’re a teen with a dream or an adult looking for inspiration, take a page from these young millionaires. Start now, start small, and think big.
FAQs
1. Who is the richest teen entrepreneur in the United States?
Ryan Kaji is currently the richest teen entrepreneur in the U.S., with an estimated fortune exceeding $100 million, primarily from his YouTube channel Ryan’s World and his branded merchandise empire.
2. How did Alina Morse start her candy company?
At age 7, Alina Morse wanted a healthier lollipop. She asked her dad why they couldn’t make one that was good for teeth—and that question led to Zolli Pops, the bestselling sugar-free candy in the U.S.
3. Are these teen entrepreneurs still active in business?
Yes, many of them are. Some have shifted focus or expanded into new ventures, but they all continue to be involved in business, branding, or entertainment.
4. Can any teenager become an entrepreneur like them?
Absolutely. While not everyone will become a millionaire, any teen can start a business or project based on their interests. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and learn along the way.
5. What role do parents play in teen entrepreneurship?
Parents often act as mentors, managers, and protectors. They handle legal issues, offer emotional support, and help their kids maintain balance while pursuing success.
