Working with young entrepreneurs
The entrepreneurial attitudes of young Atlantic Canadians
represent a tremendous opportunity for the region’s economy.
Studies indicate that one in five would like to start their
own business. Among young people already in business,
more than 80% intend to increase their sales and expand
their markets.
The reason this situation is so important to Atlantic Canada
comes down to the critical role entrepreneurs play in job
creation. Small- and medium-sized businesses – the types of
business that these young people aspire to start and grow,
generate more than 70% of all new jobs in the region.
Ensuring that more young Atlantic Canadians have access to
the tools and programs they need to succeed in business is
what the Young Entrepreneur Development Initiative (YEDI)
is all about.
What is YEDI?
YEDI is an ACOA initiative designed to expand and enhance
the entrepreneurship training, information and support services
available to Atlantic Canadians under 35 years of age.
How does it work?
Investments will be made in three key areas:
Aspiring Entrepreneurs
This element of YEDI will provide enhanced opportunities
for young people considering entrepreneurship to further
explore the option and “learn the ropes”. For example:
entrepreneurship courses and workshops, business planning
competitions, and improved web access to information
and resources.
Existing Entrepreneurs
Getting into business is one thing, but surviving and growing
your business brings new challenges. This element will
enhance the availability of business skills training and
support for young people already in business. For example:
business skills workshops, mentoring programs, advisory and
support services and learning conferences that bring young
entrepreneurs together.
Community Entrepreneurship Development
The purpose of this element is to encourage community-level
involvement in the planning and implementation of programs
targeting the development of young entrepreneurs. This
could include, for example, working with local economic
development partners and community resources to enhance
support for young entrepreneurs.
Who can apply?
Not-for-profit and non-commercial organizations such as
business and economic development associations,
educational institutions or municipalities.
Funding and Eligibility
ACOA assistance is non-repayable and limited to the
percentage of eligible costs necessary for the project
to proceed.
Interested in learning more about YEDI?
Contact the ACOA office nearest you:
ACOA New Brunswick: 1-800-561-4030
ACOA Prince Edward Island and Tourism: 1-800-871-2596
ACOA Newfoundland and Labrador: 1-800-668-1010
ACOA Nova Scotia: 1-800-565-1228
ACOA Head Office: 1-800-561-7862
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation: 1-800-705-3926
