Fostering next generation of entrepreneurs

MANY of Ireland’s most successful entrepreneurs are calling on primary schools in Kerry to participate in the Junior Entrepreneur Programme.

The free nationwide programme gives children between the ages of 10 and 12 years a real insight to the business world, by enabling them to convert their commercial ideas into real business opportunities, complete with management teams, sales and especially the thrill of running a successful and profitable business.

The free 12 to 16 week programme is led by Jerry Kennelly and supported by successful entrepreneurs across Ireland, including Anne Heraty of CPL, Niall Norton of Openet, Frank Salmon of CMS Distribution and Michael Dawson of One 4 All among others.

JEP is the only initiative that promotes entrepreneurship at primary level.

Over the last five years, more than 26,500 national school pupils have already benefited from the programme.

“All too often entrepreneurship programmes target transition year students at second level, but by then many career decisions and subject choices have already been made,” said Jerry Kennelly.

“The ideal time to open young minds to the thrill of business is at primary education level, when they are at their most creative and uninhibited in their approach to business ideas and solutions,” Mr Kennelly said.

JEP is a great opportunity for all school children. There is no cost to the schools and the benefits are enormous.

It has been proven that pupils who participate in entrepreneurship programmes demonstrate increased initiative and self-confidence.

Fostering a love for business and a culture of entrepreneurship in children will not only provide opportunities in the future, but will also support job creation and economic development across the country.

Applications are now open to all primary schools to participate in the Junior Entrepreneurship Programme 2016/2017 at www.juniorentrepreneur.ie.

The programme is available nationally and is free for parents, children and schools to participate in.