Sign in My Account
Business news

Young Enterprise NI Big Market returns to St George’s Market, Belfast

Posted By:
Young Enterprise N.I. Ltd.

26th Nov 2024

Young Enterprise NI is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated annual Big Market, showcasing the entrepreneurial skills of students from schools across Northern Ireland. This exciting event is set to take place on Wednesday 11 December from 10am to 1pm at St George’s Market in Belfast, with generous support from Belfast City Council, Go Succeed and Innovate UK.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, said:  “It’s great to see the Big Market back in Belfast’s historic St George’s Market again this year – the home for local traders.

“This is a brilliant initiative which helps young people learn new skills, develop their talents and explore career options such as running their own business.

“As a council, we want to increase the percentage rate of school leavers progressing into positive destinations, and are pleased to support Young Enterprise with this event which contributes so much towards this goal.”

Cathy Keenan from Go Succeed added, “Empowering the next generation of business leaders is essential for a thriving economy. Events like the Big Market not only foster essential skills but also promote confidence and resilience among our young entrepreneurs.”

Emily Nott, Head of Inclusive Innovation at Innovate UK said “As Innovate UK No Limits, we’re really pleased to be partnering with Young Enterprise NI for Big Market 2024. We can’t wait to see the creativity and ingenuity of these trailblazing young innovators. Through this hands-on experience of running a business, they’re gaining invaluable insights into what it might mean to be one of our future innovators and problem solvers.

Beyond the event, we’ll continue supporting these aspiring entrepreneurs through the No Limits platform, which can connect them with opportunities from organisations across the UK.”

The Big Market serves as a unique platform for young entrepreneurs to gain practical experience in selling their products and services directly to the public. Over 100 market stalls will be run by students participating in the Young Enterprise entrepreneurship programmes. This event offers participants the chance to engage with customers, gather feedback, and test their business ideas.

“The Big Market provides young entrepreneurs with invaluable experience beyond the classroom,” said Carol Fitzsimons MBE, Chief Executive of Young Enterprise NI. “It challenges them to step outside their comfort zones and flourish. The skills and experiences they gain throughout the programme make them work-ready!”

Young Enterprise entrepreneurship programmes equip young people with the experience of establishing and running real businesses. Participants learn all facets of entrepreneurship, from crafting a business plan to mastering marketing and sales strategies.

The Big Market is free to attend and is open to the public. It is the perfect place to buy some Christmas presents for friends and family. Join us in supporting our young people at the Big Market.

Young Enterprise is grateful to Belfast City Council for the use of St George’s Market for the Big Market.

 

In the photo:  L-R:  Pete Snodden, Cool FM and Young Enterprise Ambassador, Phoebe Kay, Stakeholder Relationship Lead at Innovate UK, Councillor Micky Murray, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Belfast City Council, Cathy Keenan, Programme Lead at Go Succeed, Carol Fitzsimons, MBE, Chief Executive at Young Enterprise NI with pupils from St Louise’s College and Strathearn School, Belfast.