PacifiCan announces $233K for young entrepreneurs and youth in B.C.
by CM Staff
The funding announced will go towards delivering YELL classes in five northern British Columbia communities.
Youth in Northern B.C. to benefit from access to new entrepreneurship and leadership programs (CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada)
PRINCE GEORGE — On Mar. 2, Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $233,083 in funding to expand Young Entrepreneur Leadership Launchpad (YELL) Canada programming in Northern British Columbia.
The Minister made the announcement as 2023 iCubed (Invention, Innovation, Integration) kicked off its virtual annual summit, which brings together Grade 9, 10 and 11 students from rural and remote communities across Canada to learn entrepreneurial skills.
A registered charity, YELL exposes students to diverse guest speakers and mentors and operates Canada’s first high school entrepreneurship program eligible for university credits. The program uses the principles of entrepreneurship to advance young leaders in any field, equipping them with the skillset they need to help them become creative problem solvers.
The funding announced will go towards delivering YELL classes in five northern British Columbia communities: Terrace, Smithers, Vanderhoof, Prince George and Quesnel. This investment will also support YELL’s delivery of two future iCubed Summits.
YELL programs will reach over 180 students, with a focus on gender equality, engaging Indigenous students, and ensuring marginalized youth have access to programming. In addition, 2,000 future iCubed student attendees are expected to benefit from this investment.
“Business development takes passion, energy and creativity – qualities that youth often have in abundance. The training provided by YELL Canada is preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs and creative thinkers in Northern British Columbia. The skills, support and confidence acquired by these students will open doors for them and help them become the next generation of community builders,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
