An entrepreneurship program is delivering real outcomes for young people in Kempsey and the Mid North Coast, helping bring business ideas to life or grow existing ventures.
Launch Pad is a 10‑week program supporting young entrepreneurs aged 17–30 with practical skills and mentoring through hands‑on workshops led by local business leaders.
One participant, Paris, has recently opened a women's massage and bodywork studio specialising in pregnancy and post‑partum care Sol Wellness Studio in Centrepoint Arcade, Kempsey.
"As a young business owner, you really do have to wear all the hats," Paris said.
"My skill is what people come for, but running a business means understanding accounting, tax, insurance, marketing and social media. Knowing how to use these tools is the difference between staying in business or burning out."
"Launch Pad has been great because it gives you a space with people your own age who are facing the same challenges. You learn from Julie and from each other, and you don't feel so alone."
Paris said the program has also created collaboration opportunities, including a new partnership with fellow participant Anna-Lisa from One in Health Naturopath.
"We're looking at sharing a space and creating more of a hub," Paris said.
"It's not about competing, it's about co‑existing and supporting each other. That networking side of Launch Pad has been invaluable."
Anna Lisa said the program helped her gain clarity around the behind‑the‑scenes aspects of running a business.
"I've run businesses before, but I realised I wasn't doing the back end as efficiently," Anna Lisa said.
"Launch Pad has helped me understand how to build strong foundations so a business can grow sustainably. Having dedicated time each week to focus on that has been incredibly valuable."
"There's a real sense of encouragement in the group. Everyone shows up, supports each other and shares ideas."
Key program milestones include a Launch Pad pop‑up store day at Kempsey Central on Monday 25 May, followed by a final celebration and pitch event on 4 June at the Slim Dusty Centre, where mini‑grants will be awarded and participant businesses showcased.
Launch Pad facilitator Julie Humphris said pitching skills are a focus of the program.
"Pitching can feel daunting, but it's really about being clear on your message and understanding your audience," Ms Humphris said.
"We help participants prepare for questions, align their ideas with local priorities and clearly communicate their value.
The program currently includes 11 participants, with three from Kempsey, four from Nambucca and four from Port Macquarie.
"These young people show up every week. They're committed, motivated and exactly the right group to pilot this program."
Launch Pad was created and is delivered by local business owner Julie Humphris of Business Life Guide. The program is funded by Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation and supported by Kempsey Shire Council, Nambucca Valley Council, Port Macquarie Hastings Council, Macleay Valley Business Chamber, Country Universities Centre – Macleay Valley, Learning the Macleay and regional partners.
