Future young entrepreneurs are being urged to take advantage of financial support and mentoring from a growing partnership scheme
The Youth Enterprise Bank has so far offered support to 500 young people – and it is hoped that number will soon soar.
The project, which is operated alongside Hull City Council’s Making Changes for Careers programme and the Hull and East Riding Youth Enterprise Partnership, sees financial support and mentoring offered to budding young entrepreneurs in the area.
And during Humber Business Week, young people who have accessed the support are urging others to take advantage.
Thomas Arran, of TArran Photography, accessed £800 to cover the start-up of his business.
The Youth Enterprise Bank is looking for mentors.
He said the support has allowed his business to grow significantly.
“My enterprising journey began while studying for a BTEC Diploma in Photography,” he said.
“My first projects were small weddings, which then eventually led to work with Hull FC and Hull City Council, and I am now doing commercial work up and down the country.
“I received support from Hull City Council and the Youth Enterprise Bank, where I received £800 to cover my start-up costs. I am delighted to back this new partnership scheme to support enterprising young people.”
The project has been backed by some recognisable names, including Claire Young, star of BBC’s The Apprentice.
Claire has committed to being a patron to the scheme – and said other cities should follow the example being seen in Hull.
“Hull is doing a great deal to support its enterprising young people, especially those aged 21 and under,” she said. “And for me is setting the benchmark for other cities to follow. I have seen how the city supports its wonderful young entrepreneurs, and encourage start-up businesses, which as we know are very much needed to drive our way out of economic tough times.
“As an entrepreneur myself, I know how important it is to be listened to and given a fair chance to demonstrate what we can do. Hull City Council and the Youth Enterprise Bank provides this opportunity and I hope businesses will consider giving it their support by becoming JCYEB partners, either as a creator or innovator and offering their services as mentors by working with the city’s current youth enterprise ambassadors.”
