News

November 06, 2009

Prince’s Trust offers free business training to disadvantaged

Enterprise charity The Prince's Trust has launched a free training course to help disadvantaged young people explore their business ideas.

The Be Enterprising course is open to 14 to 30-year olds across the UK who struggled at school, have been in care, have been unemployed for at least six months or have been in trouble with the law. The course starts with a "taster day" to help attendees decide if running a business is for them.

People who still wish to develop a business idea will then be able to attend a four-day course covering topics including writing a business plan, managing cashflow and marketing. Those on the course can also apply for funding to carry out test marketing on a prototype product they have developed.

On completion of the course, up to three years of mentoring will be available to people who want to continue with their business.

Anyone who meets the criteria and is interested in taking part in the course should call The Prince's Trust hotline or visit the website to find out where their nearest programme will be held. Approximately 600 places will be available.

The course has been launched following a £1 million investment from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

"With these vital funds, we will be able to inspire young people to be enterprising and realise their potential," said The Prince's Trust chief executive, Martina Milburn.

The Prince's Trust predicts that 270 young people will start a business in the next five months as a result of the course. People who attend the training day but do not go on to start a business will receive support to get back into employment or training.

• For more information about the course, visit The Prince's Trust website

or telephone 0800 842 842