Aaron Levant, founder of the streetwear/urban show Agenda based in the states, proves a point that being a successful entrepreneur doesn’t require an Masters degree.

In January 2003, at age 19, Aaron started a Los Angeles-based tradeshow for streetwear and action sports apparel which goes by the name of Agenda, holding the first event in a Thai restaurant back in the day – the only place he could find for a day rental. This low-budget affair, nonetheless, drew 33 brands that signed on at $500 apiece to have their merchandise wheeled in on racks.

Fast forward 10 years, and Agenda has grown into one of the biggest sports and streetwear tradeshows in the United States with two shows a year at key venues in Long Beach, California (opening today) and New York City in two weeks, along with a new one to launch in Las Vegas in mid February. Last January, Agenda announced a partnership with tradeshow giant Reed Exhibitions.

So how did Mr Levant do it? Find the full interview over on Upstart.