Age no barrier to innovation

Age no barrier to innovation…

It seems age is no barrier to innovation on the North Shore as hundreds of secondary school students take on the business world.

More than 360 budding entrepreneurs from North Shore and Rodney schools attended the launch of the 2010 Young Enterprise Scheme at Massey University yesterday, stunning organisers with their array of unique business ideas.

The high energy entrepreneur day (E-Day) kick started the year long programme that sees students form a company and produce goods or services to sell.

Enthusiasm, energy and excitement was abound as students brainstormed and pitched their unique business ideas to a team of local business experts who provided advice and guidance.

YES is a hands-on nationwide scheme requiring students to run a business within the school curriculum. It fosters tomorrow’s entrepreneurs as students complete all aspects of running a business including planning, budgeting, decision making, identifying and managing risk, market research, marketing, selling, and annual financial reporting.

Enterprise North Shore, who runs the programme in North Shore, Rodney and Auckland Central secondary schools, was amazed by the students’ creativity and commitment. Chief executive Terry Hoskins says: “Innovation is a part of a growing economy. We love to be involved with YES as it encourages this element in the next generation of entrepreneurs. Judging by the quality of the 2010 YES business ideas, the future of the North Shore looks extremely secure.”

More than 30 local business professionals provided ‘speed coaching’ during E-day and were impressed with the students’ energy and drive. “There is some very creative thinking amongst the students,” says Richard Toulson from Quadrant 2 Ltd. “The multitude of unique ideas are inspiring – I look forward to seeing what they produce.”

At the end of the programme, YES companies will be recognised at a regional awards ceremony held at North Harbour Stadium on 14 October 2010.

ENDS