A record number of young entrepreneurs are receiving support to launch and grow their businesses through programs offered by the Business and Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland.
During its annual youth certificate presentation ceremony, the Business and Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland celebrated participants in both its My Future My Career Kids Entrepreneurship Program and the provincial Summer Company Program, recognizing young people who have developed business ideas and taken steps toward becoming entrepreneurs.
The My Future My Career program, offered by the centre in partnership with Northumberland County, welcomed a record 24 participants this year. Designed for youth between the ages of eight and 14, the program provides micro grants and practical experience in areas such as business planning, marketing, customer service and financial management.
Now in its sixth year, the initiative has supported 89 young entrepreneurs and awarded more than $39,000 in micro grants since it began.
The centre also recognized nine entrepreneurs through the Summer Company Program, a provincial initiative for youth aged 15 to 29. Participants receive training, mentorship and up to $3,000 in funding to launch or expand their businesses. This year’s intake received a combined $27,000 in provincial grant funding.
Businesses supported this year range from landscaping, pressure washing and mobile detailing to digital design, sports photography, professional beauty services, handmade products and art.
Business Development Coordinator Kailyn Coupland says supporting youth entrepreneurship is an investment in the future of Northumberland’s communities and local economy, helping young people build confidence, develop valuable business skills and turn creative ideas into successful ventures.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
