AN exciting competition launched in Redditch and Bromsgrove for young business people is offering nearly £27,000 worth of awards to help get budding social enterprises off the ground in the area.

The Try it, Do it Challenge, which is being organised by the Accord housing and social care group, the Matrix Housing Partnership and UnLtd as part of the national Building Futures programme is aimed at up-and-coming business start ups, and local community projects benefitting the community.

Open to 16-24 year-olds throughout the area, the competition is challenging young people to pitch for an event in March, allowing them to use their money to test the market or launch their own enterprise.

Succesful applicants for the competition will receive expert mentoring form the Accord Group’s enterprise team to help with their ventures, as well as funding ranging from £500 to £2,000.

Alix Drysdale, enterprise manager for the Accord Group, said: “It can be really difficult to get a business off the ground, especially for young people who often can’t secure the finance to get started.

“This programme is unique in that it allows people with an idea to try it first using a small award or even launch a business with a larger sum of money if they’ve already developed their idea.

“Businesses need to be social enterprises to be eligible but can provide any service, from hairdressing to mechanics, as long as it benefits their community.”

Louise Cannon, who leads UnLtd’s Building Futures programme, added: “Time and again we see young people demonstrate their grit, resilience and ability to seek solutions to social issues. We are excited to see how Accord’s competition for young people in the Midlands develops.”

Anyone wanting to find out more about the competition or register their interest in attending the March event and pitching their idea, should call Alix Drysdale on 0121 3589019 or 07920 769491 or they can write to alixd@accordgroup.org.uk by Monday, March 10.