Community Futures Visions North is located downtown La Ronge. (Community Futures Visions North/Facebook)

By Derek Cornet

business minded

Young people target of La Ronge entrepreneurship program

Apr 6, 2021 | 1:52 PM

An innovative new program to boost entrepreneurship among young people is being offered by La Ronge’s Community Futures Visions North.

The Side Hustle Microgrant Program is designed for individuals between 15 to 29 and is geared towards giving them the skills to develop their own business plan. General manager Bill Hogan explained those who successfully complete all components of the program will be given $500 in non-repayable funds to either expand an existing business or start a new one.

“I think the problem, and this is my personal view of it, is a lot of people look at entrepreneurship more of a fallback plan,” he said. “What we would like to do is get them to think of entrepreneurship as more of an option along with any other career.”

Hogan mentioned young people are an underrepresented demographic when it comes to entrepreneurship. He also said those under the age of 18 can’t legally sign for loans, meaning a parent has to do so on their behalf.

“I think as much as the $500 is a good initiative for them to get involved, what we’re looking at more and trying to stress is the workshops you have to complete to be eligible,” Hogan said. “A lot of people jump into a business without having a plan and what we are trying to tell them is the plan is really helping you narrow your business, find out who your audience is, is there a market for your idea and, more importantly, is to help you plan for any contingency that may pop up.”

Crime

Teenage boy alleged responsible for armed robbery at Debden business

9h ago

'whole civilization will die'

'War crimes': Iranian Canadians horrified by Trump's latest threat to destroy Iran

10h ago

Heavy snow causing issues

Travel not recommended in Melfort area

11h ago

Hogan also noted the Side Hustle Microgrant Program is from Parkland Community Futures in Manitoba where it has proven to be a success during the last couple years. He added a children’s fair held back in 2019 showed there is a diverse range of business ideas in the tri-communities.

For those interested in the program, the application period will be open from May 1 to May 31. More information can be found on the Community Futures Visions North Facebook page.

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno

by Derek Cornet

Young people target of La Ronge entrepreneurship program

What's Trending