If you think you need a big budget, years of experience, or even a business degree to become an entrepreneur, meet Caine Monroy.

At just nine years old, Caine built a cardboard arcade in his dad’s auto parts shop in East Los Angeles. Using nothing but scrap cardboard, tape, and imagination, he created a functioning game space—then sat patiently, day after day, waiting for customers. 

One day, a filmmaker named Nirvan Mullick walked in, became Caine’s first customer, and was so blown away by the kid’s creativity that he made a short documentary. That video went viral. Within days, hundreds of people lined up to play Caine’s games. Over $240,000 was raised for his college fund. More importantly, a global movement—The Imagination Foundation—was launched to support creative entrepreneurship in kids around the world. 

Why does this matter to you, an Arden student entrepreneur? 

Caine didn’t wait for perfect conditions. He didn’t worry about funding, business plans, or market validation. He just started. 

Too many students get stuck in “planning mode.” They hesitate to launch because they’re waiting for more time, more money, or more confidence. But action—however small—is what builds momentum. Caine’s story reminds us that resourcefulness, grit, and a willingness to be seen are often more important than formal know-how. 

So what can you do today with what you’ve got? 

Start small. Test an idea. Put something into the world—even if it’s made of cardboard. You never know who might walk through the door. 

Watch Caine’s story here: Caine’s Arcade – 10-minute doc