To mark its 30^th year of operation and to give something back to society PNE is planning to launch a new Youth Enterprise Centre.  This will be a visible example of PNE’s contribution to the society and the community in which it operates.  

The concept of giving young people access to extra help when starting a business is little unchanged from 30 years ago – what goes around, comes around. In 1980, graduates, school leavers and young people in the workforce were looking at a very familiar landscape – challenging employment prospects, a slow UK economy and little, or no, access to finance and workspace.

Concept

Starting a business is a challenge in any circumstances but being young can pose particular hurdles – access to money, advice, peer group support and mentorship to name but a few.

A limited number of up to 15 Starter units will be made available on a fixed term, short lease agreement to young people (age 18-29) to house their new business based on a submitted business start-up plan. 

Starter units will be small and situated within PNE properties and rent for the 6 month term will be £100 + VAT per calendar month.  A review we undertaken at 6 months at which the tenancy can be extended for 3 months and then again - up to a maximum of 12 months in total from start. 

The aim is to give young people an opportunity to start their business and then be able to make a good decision at the end of the tenancy about the future of their business.  Choices may include moving into larger or more commercial premises (possibly within the PNE Property portfolio); review their business operation or cease trading.

Business will be encouraged to access other PNE services to highlight the positive difference between starting a business from home and starting one with PNE's support.  

Offer

Eligible young people would apply for access to a supported workspace within the Centre. 

Application would be via an interview and submission of business plan.

Successful applicants would have access to:

• Dedicated Workspace
• High speed internet access
• Initial face-to-face diagnostic session with PNE in-house IT specialists followed up with bi-monthly workshops with PNE IT, Accountancy and PR & Media specialists
• A media and PR toolkit
• Signposting to accessible legal advice
• Access to PNE Loan Funds
• Business support under the Banza project
• Encouragement to access the LiveWIRE Business Library
• Services of PNE Property
• Negotiated discounts on goods and services

What next?

Please download the information sheet below and get in touch

The PNE Young Entrepreneur Centre Information