Centreprise – an innovative programme, designed to inspire a new generation of business leaders, has been launched by the youth homelessness charity, Centrepoint.
16 young people from London and Bradford were given the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills, build confidence and develop business ideas that could one day grow to become the UK’s next big company.
The initiative has been made possible thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Alison Fortescue, whose late husband Alex Fortescue left a £1 million legacy gift.
Today culminated in a Dragon’s Den-style final, during which participants pitched their ideas to a panel of respected business leaders and entrepreneurs including; Centrepoint donor Alison Fortescue; founder of Alma Labs, James Bennet; and Co-founder of Little Moons, Vivien Wong.
The judges shared valuable insight and feedback with the young people on their ideas before allocating support in the form of equipment, software and professional services which will help them build their business.
Alison Fortescue said: “I was so impressed by the enthusiasm of the young people participating in Centreprise, their commitment and ambitions are truly inspiring.”
Young people will also have access to weekly 1-to-1 mentoring sessions, plus check-in calls with their mentors for three months.
With youth unemployment at an all-time high, Centreprise is helping young people unlock their potential, equipping them with transferable skills that will benefit them throughout their education and careers.
Sadie Odeogberin, Head of Centrepoint Works, said: “All young people want to work but there are some who aren’t given the support or opportunities to do so. Centreprise is changing that.
“The past few weeks have been amazing, and we have seen participants grow in confidence, creativity and ambition. I’m incredibly proud of what the young people have achieved.
“With their talent, hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, I’m sure they are destined to become the UK’s next great business leaders.”
The transformational donation will fund the Centreprise programme for the next five years, giving hundreds of young people the support and guidance needed to succeed in business.
Vivien Wong, Co-founder of Little Moons, said: “It’s life changing starting a business and I really believe more young people should do it.
“They have so much offer and we can learn so much from their generation – if I can play even a small part in their journey then it would mean so much to me.”
