12/09/2025
BCC Launches 'Young Entrepreneurs To Watch' Programme
Belfast City Council has launched a new accelerator programme aimed at the city’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
'Belfast’s Young Entrepreneurs to Watch' is a dynamic three-month initiative designed to discover, develop, and fast-track entrepreneurial talent among 16 to 24-year-olds.
The programme combines hands-on workshops with exclusive mentoring from high-profile business leaders. At a city centre showcase event, participants will pitch their ventures for the chance to win a £2,000 funding boost to help bring their ideas to life. Sponsors Danske Bank, Pacem Advisory, and Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer will deliver practical, real-world advice to participants.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said the initiative is "incredible" and that "entrepreneurship should be available to everyone – no matter what your background is." She added that by providing young people with the "correct tools, mentoring services and experience," the city is building momentum for future leaders.
Applications for the programme opened on Thursday, 11 September, and the deadline is Friday, 10 October at 5pm. Workshops will then take place during November and December.
belfastcity.gov.uk/cityforbusiness
'Belfast’s Young Entrepreneurs to Watch' is a dynamic three-month initiative designed to discover, develop, and fast-track entrepreneurial talent among 16 to 24-year-olds.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said the initiative is "incredible" and that "entrepreneurship should be available to everyone – no matter what your background is." She added that by providing young people with the "correct tools, mentoring services and experience," the city is building momentum for future leaders.
Applications for the programme opened on Thursday, 11 September, and the deadline is Friday, 10 October at 5pm. Workshops will then take place during November and December.
belfastcity.gov.uk/cityforbusiness
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