Virtually There, a virtual office and services provider, is empowering young entrepreneurs and early-stage start-ups in Manchester with £5000 worth of business support and services to get their ideas or fledgling enterprises off the ground.
The Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (YES) launches today (Thursday, 17th June), with applications closing on Thursday 12th August. It is open to any entrepreneur aged between 16-25 years old who has a business idea or a pre-existing start-up that could benefit from Virtually There’s services and support.
The scheme follows the devastating effects Covid has had on youth unemployment, which hit up to 15% compared to pre-pandemic levels in the past year. This has nonetheless been coupled with a boom in young entrepreneurship, with many business-savvy individuals using their free time over the lockdowns to start an enterprise.
Virtually There’s scheme will empower those who are seizing this moment to take a leap into entrepreneurship. Successful applicants will attend a free start-up 101 workshop, delivered in partnership with highly-reputable business incubator Enterprise Orchard, and receive a free year of virtual office space, virtual receptionist or assistant services, as well as 1-2-1 mentoring with leading industry experts.
Virtually There Co-Founders Edgar Thoemmes and Jack Head started their joint venture in order to assist other business owners and help them grow. “As serial founders ourselves, we know just how tough it can be starting out. We want to offer the next generation a helping hand in reaching their entrepreneurial goals” said Edgar of the new scheme. “Many young people have had to rely on their creativity and initiative to unearth opportunities. We feel it is our responsibility to empower them.” Added Jack.
