New initiative helps young, Black business owners
LOCAL HERO: Nathan Dennis is changing the lives of young, black people in his community.
A GROUP of young entrepreneurs from Birmingham has launched new business ventures after being inspired by some of the city’s leading business figures.
Seven 16- to 25-year-olds have graduated from Street Smart 2 Business Start (SS2BS), a virtual programme for aspiring business owners from black communities. Now in its third year, SS2BS initially supported 25 young people to become their own boss, including some who had previous involvement in criminal behaviour.
Delivered by city-based charity First Class Foundation, the seven-week voluntary programme offered practical hands-on support in how to run a successful new business, including business strategy and planning, financial management and customer engagement.