Helping unemployed young people create new businesses and new jobs. That's the focus of an innovative, new government program being administered in the Victoria area by Ethos Career Management Group.

Under the Youth Skills BC - Entrepreneurship Pilot Program, Ethos Career Management Group has been awarded $382,399 to help local youth develop their business ideas and entrepreneurial skills. The project is part of a new $1.65-million pilot program introduced by the B.C. government and funded through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement.

The program is designed to assist unemployed youth ages 15 to 29 who are non-Employment Insurance clients. In Victoria, it will support 45 young people to enhance their entrepreneurial, employability and occupational skills through the development of a formal business plan, mentorship and training.

This innovative new program provides the opportunity for youth to participate in business training, work with local business owners and access one-on-one business coaching and development programs. Through the program, youth with a sound business concept can apply directly to Ethos Career Management Group for assistance in developing the concept into a formal business plan.

Up to $5,000 per participant will be available to support pilot program activities, and may include personal supports during the development of the business plan, business-seed funding, an education grant or the purchase of training.

Pilot project funding is also going to groups in Vancouver, Prince George and Kelowna.

Quotes:

Murray Coell, MLA Saanich North and the Islands -

"Giving young people the tools to succeed in business now will help them to become our business and community leaders of the future."

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada -

"Understanding that each province and territory is well positioned to address its own unique labour market needs, our government is proud to support this innovative project. Helping young people develop the entrepreneurial spirit and skills they need to succeed in, and potentially create, the jobs of tomorrow will strengthen B.C.'s long-term competitiveness; building a stronger province and a stronger Canada."

Deborah Bromley, CEO of Ethos Career Management Group -

"In our experience, youth often have wonderfully creative business ideas. What they lack in guidance, training and financial resources is made up for with their enthusiasm and energy. This program will assist youth in taking their ideas and turning them into viable, self-sufficient businesses, giving them a lifelong edge in the business world."

"As an alumnus of a government-funded self-employment program, who is celebrating 10 years in business, I can speak to how valuable this kind of program assistance can be."

Learn More:

Ethos Career Management Group: www.ethoscmg.com/ymb.html

Contacts:

Gordon Keast
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 356-7104

Leaverd Carnegie
Ethos Career Management Group
250 384-9283