The Government of Canada is investing in the next generation of change-makers in British Columbia helping to grow fresh talent and innovative solutions for the future.
The next generation of innovative thinkers exists in communities throughout British Columbia. Creating opportunities for youth with diverse talents, abilities and backgrounds in B.C.'s rural communities will ensure that they have access to the same events and programming as youth in urban centres. That is why PacifiCan is investing in projects that bring opportunities to young entrepreneurs throughout British Columbia.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $233,083 in funding to expand Young Entrepreneur Leadership Launchpad (YELL) Canada programming in Northern British Columbia.
The Minister made the announcement today as 2023 iCubed (Invention, Innovation, Integration) kicked off its virtual annual summit, which brings together Grade 9, 10 and 11 students from rural and remote communities across Canada to learn entrepreneurial skills.
A registered charity, YELL exposes students to diverse guest speakers and mentors and operates Canada's first high school entrepreneurship program eligible for university credits. The program uses the principles of entrepreneurship to advance young leaders in any field, equipping them with the skillset they need to help them become creative problem solvers.
The funding announced today will go towards delivering YELL classes in five northern British Columbia communities: Terrace, Smithers, Vanderhoof, Prince George and Quesnel. This investment will also support YELL's delivery of two future iCubed Summits.
YELL programs will reach over 180 students, with a focus on gender equality, engaging Indigenous students, and ensuring marginalized youth have access to programming. In addition, 2,000 future iCubed student attendees are expected to benefit from this investment. Over the next three years, these students will enter the workforce in rural B.C. communities better prepared to pursue entrepreneurship or apply these new skills in any career.
