Youth entrepreneurs in East Kootenay presenting ideas at upcoming online showcase

After months of brainstorming at a Community Futures East Kootenay (CFEK) program, young people across the Kootenays are now taking center stage with fresh ideas to solve challenges in their communities.

On Thursday, May 28, teams of youth ages 14 to 18 will be presenting their projects at the non-profit’s Innovate for Impact pitch showcase.

“Over the last few months, high school students throughout the Kootenays have been developing their ideas for social enterprises as well as their entrepreneurial skills,” said Robyn Peel, Community Economic Development Manager with CFEK. 

“They started by identifying real problems in their communities and with a flexible, hands-on online curriculum and the support of mentors, they designed solutions and built social enterprise ideas from the ground up.”

Select teams will be receiving funding to bring their ideas to life.

The community is invited to attend the online event, which starts at 5:30 p.m. The CFEK is also set to host a Kootenay Late Night the following week on Tuesday, June 2.

“There is no shortage of people doing remarkable things, transforming their communities,” Peel added. “This virtual, talk show-style celebration will give them a chance to share their stories.”

Anyone looking to work with youth groups in the fall cohort is encouraged to attend an information session in June.

Innovate for Impact is done in part with Impact Toolbox.

More information on all events is available through the CFEK website.