15/12/2023

Belfast City Council Launches '21 Under 21' Competition

Belfast City Council has invited young entrepreneurs to take part in the '21 Under 21 – Entrepreneurs to Watch in Belfast'.

The competition provides an opportunity for young entrepreneurs between 16 and 21 at an idea or early start phase. The participants to take part in a three-month programme of action-oriented workshops that will act as a springboard for future success.

Sponsored by Danske Bank and Pacem Accounting & Tax, one of the 21 participants in the competition will be named Belfast's first ever Young Entrepreneur of the Year and win £2,000.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Ryan Murphy said: "I've chosen to champion our city's young people during my year in office, and we've also made a commitment to support Belfast's young people to fulfil their potential in our Belfast Agenda. So this new competition is all about nurturing Belfast's young people's entrepreneurial talent because they're so fundamental to our city's future success and growth.

"We're not seeing enough young people starting businesses – and that's despite their obvious talent and ambition. We want to show that enterprise is a viable career option for everyone, regardless of age or educational achievement. And while starting a business may be daunting, our council enterprise and business growth team and our wider business networks are there to support you every step of the way.

"This competition programme offers action-orientated workshops, top class entrepreneurial speakers, a proven playbook, a support network of 20 other exceptional entrepreneurs, profile opportunities, and the chance of a £2,000 cash boost lined up – so this this could really get young people’s 2024 off to a fantastic start."

The deadline for applications is 10 January 2024.

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