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Free course for young would-be entrepreneurs

Young people in Sefton who want to be their own boss are being offered some expert advice on entrepreneurship on a free course that begins later this month.

Award-winning, Bootle-based business support organisation Regenerus is running the ten-day course for 18 to 24-year-olds as part of the Government-sponsored Talent Match initiative.

The Regenerus programme on Merseyside, organised in partnership with Merseyside Youth Association and the Youth Federation, aims to create up to 40 new sustainable businesses run by young people over the next five years.

The first course gets under way on Friday November 21st at Merseyside Youth Association’s headquarters in Hanover Street in Liverpool city centre.

According to Regenerus Chief Executive Cate Murphy, it is aimed at young would-be entrepreneurs who want to set up their own businesses for a variety of reasons.

While some may have hit upon a great idea to fill a gap in the market, others may have a particular talent or skill they want to sell, or be passionate about providing a specific service.

“Whatever the impetus, the aim of this course is to give participants the knowledge, skills and contacts they need to get their business ideas off the ground,” explained Cate.

Key elements of the Talent Match package include a £250 start-up grant and three months’ ongoing mentoring from a successful entrepreneur.

Other parts of the course include practical help with developing an image and brand, and advice aimed at helping participants to lose their fear of finance.

It also incorporates one-to-one support from qualified business advisers, introductions to useful contacts and networking opportunities with other young entrepreneurs.

Cate Murphy added: “This course offers a wide range of information and advice on how to turn a business idea into reality, and we hope it attracts a lot of interest from the many young people in Sefton whose ambition is to be their own boss.”

Talent Match is open to young people aged from 18-24 who are not currently in employment or at college.

To book a place on the course ring Donna Dutton at Regenerus on 0151-934 2637.