More than 240 young people in the Dunedin, Clutha, and Waitaki Districts are set to take part in a new 10-week Enterprise Accelerator programme, designed to support youth into enterprise or employment pathways.
The young people, aged 15 to 24 years, will turn ideas into action and build the skills they need for work, business and the future through a specialised youth enterprise programme, said Youth and South Island Minister, James Meager.
Mr Meager says the initiative will give young people the chance to take part in hands-on workshops, group sessions, and applied learning.
“They will work alongside experienced mentors, develop business strategies, learn budgeting and operational planning, and explore how to turn ideas into viable ventures. These skills will benefit them no matter what career path they choose,” he said.
The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand will deliver the programme, backed by $120,000 in Government funding.
“The Trust also delivers He Kākano, a Government-funded national programme which gives young people seed funding to take their business ideas further. Participants will be supported to apply, giving them another practical pathway to turn their ambitions into reality,” Mr Meager says.
“Young people will also have access to He Kākano’s nationwide alumni network, ensuring access to continued mentoring, networking, and enterprise opportunities.
“This investment is about unlocking potential. It will help hundreds of Otago youth gain real-world experience, strengthen their work-readiness, and develop the confidence to pursue opportunities that might otherwise have felt out of reach.
“By providing tailored support and practical learning, we are helping people build the skills employers are looking for and creating pathways into work, business and self-employment. This will enable them to thrive and contribute to the economy.”
