Hunter students from school, TAFE and university will have the opportunity to gain funding and support for their business ideas and creative projects in the 2021 Hunter Young Business Minds Awards.
Young Business Minds (YBM) is a local not-for-profit organisation helping to develop creativity and entrepreneurship skills in the region’s youth. The annual awards are back for a fourth year after being postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19
YBM chairperson Cheryl Royle said the awards were a way for young people to put their ideas to the test.
“If anyone has a cool idea for a new business or product, a clever way to solve an existing problem or a creative project to benefit their community or school, they’d be crazy not to apply,” Royle said.
“There’s no reason why young people can’t establish a successful business. For some, this may be a better alternative to traditional employment.
“Some of the ideas and pitches coming in are amazing. In previous awards, we have had ideas such as a rope and strap winding aid tool, an underwater and on-surface autonomous vehicle, a shackle and tow rope for 4WDs, environmentally friendly sunscreen and a reusable coffee cup with QR code.”
Royle said students didn’t need a developed project or business plan, just a short video pitch outlining their idea or project.
First prizes of $1000 and second prizes of $500 will be given to students in each category including primary schools, secondary schools, TAFEs, and the University of Newcastle (for under 25s).
The Hunter Futurepreneurship Program will support the winning students with free, ongoing, business support.
Three prizes from Harvey Norman are also on offer to teachers and principals who are encouraging creativity, innovation or entrepreneurship in their students.
The deadline for applications is November 14, and the winners will be announced at a ceremony on December 2.
For more information or to apply visit www.ybma.com.au.
Information source: Media release