BECN Northumberland summer business programs help young entrepreneurs shine

Photo courtesy of Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN)

By: Jolie Manez

Dozens of youth across Northumberland are turning their ideas into reality thanks to help from the Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN).

This summer, 24 children aged 8 to 14 took part in the My Future My Career program, receiving micro grants and business coaching to launch or grow their small businesses.

The program has supported 65 youths with $29,000 in funding over the 5 years since launch.

Participants were recognized at a certificate ceremony and pizza party held this Thursday, July 10 at Northumberland County headquarters.

This year, 20 kids' businesses received support, including  "Sunny Day Slimes", "Gaggle o’ Goslings", "Vair", and "Lawn Legends".

Young adults aged 15 to 29 are also receiving support through the Summer Company Program.

This provincial initiative offers up to $3,000 in funding and mentorship to launch small businesses.

This year, 4 Northumberland youth are participating, running businesses like "Zenith clothing" and "Waardeer software design".

“Our young entrepreneurs continue to impress with their creativity, determination, and passion,” says BECN Business Development Coordinator, Kailyn Coupland. “It’s incredibly rewarding to support these young minds through the My Future My Career and Summer Company programs, helping them gain confidence and the skills they need to pursue their dreams. Seeing them take those first steps toward building their own businesses is truly inspiring.”

The public will have a chance to meet these up-and-coming business owners at two upcoming events: 

The BECN Youth Showcase at Staples Cobourg on Wednesday, August 13 from 11AM to 2PM, and the Youth Day market at the Cobourg Farmers’ Market on Saturday, August 23 from 9AM to 12PM.