Virgin Media creates youth entrepreneurial scheme

Virgin Media has teamed up with Enterprise UK Today’s to launch a new youth mentoring scheme called Virgin Media Pioneers.

The scheme will bring together entrepreneurs and established business experts in an online community, which will be complemented by a series of skills development sessions and networking events to help support the enterprising activity taking place online and an annual award ceremony to recognise the achievements of the Pioneer community.

Virgin says that Virgin Media Pioneers will help the UK’s aspiring young entrepreneurs overcome barriers and close the gap between the number of young people with a great idea and those who are able to make it happen.

The programme aims to inspire and enable young Brits, bringing together entrepreneurs and established business experts in a new online community, helping to build better businesses.

Neil Berkett, chief executive at Virgin Media, says: “The digital world can open up new opportunities and experiences for people from all backgrounds and, as a brand founded in entrepreneurial ambition, our partnership with Enterprise UK will help create an environment that supports the needs of all potential entrepreneurs. With Virgin Media Pioneers, we will put young people at the heart of UK entrepreneurship.”

Scott Cain, deputy chief executive of Enterprise UK, adds: “Taking the support network online makes it accessible wherever aspiring entrepreneurs are and whenever they need it. Opening up a world of business contacts and support will enable young entrepreneurs to take the first, second and every step along the journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur.”

News of the scheme comes as O2 announces a £5m investment into young people through its new social action programme, Think Big.