Green For Go! project launches to drive student entrepreneurship

North East-based firms FIRST and PNE Group have collaborated on a new project that will enable students to explore self-employment and tackle issues like climate change and inequality.

The project, named Green For Go!, will be delivered in a series of workshops for young people at four colleges across the region, teaching them to develop their entrepreneurial skills and look at ways the actions of businesses can help overcome global challenges.

This announcement comes following a successful bid for £46,000 of funding from a local private foundation that works to improve life opportunities for young people in the North East.

The programme will culminate in a pitch competition between students from participating colleges, bringing together the finalists and the business community at an event next March.

An ambassador squad of young entrepreneurs already making progress with their businesses has also been put together to provide extra inspiration for students.

Charlotte Windebank, co-Founder of FIRST said: “We are incredibly proud to be able to bring the Green For Go! programme to young people across our region.

“Young voices have been one of the most inspiring aspects of the growing discussions around climate action and social justice and businesses have an essential role to play in resolving the challenges the world faces.

“With Green For Go! we hope to motivate the next generation of sustainable business leaders and give them a tool to succeed.”

Emma Quinn, founder of Piffy and Egg and ambassador for the programme, said: “When we started to explore creating Piffy & Egg, I had incredible support from mentors and role models to gain the confidence and skills to start my own business.

“I’m really excited to be involved with Green for Go! to inspire young people to have fearless ambition and make a difference to the world.”