Introducing NextGen Elevate: A Launchpad for Young Entrepreneurs

PBC has been supporting future talent for nearly 30 years, during which time the world of work has transformed beyond recognition. The days of a single lifelong job, rigid 9 to 5 hours and daily commutes to office blocks are fast disappearing.

Today’s young people are crafting careers that mix side hustles, self-employment and traditional roles.

That’s why we’ve created NextGen Elevate – an exciting, fully-funded five-day summer programme designed for 15 to 19-year-olds who have the seed of a business idea.

No matter where they are on their journey, participants will leave with a solid business plan, sharper financial skills, stronger digital confidence and the mindset to turn ideas into action.

Every student gets a full year of one-to-one support at no cost, plus the opportunity to pitch for a share of up to £5,000 in investment.

Dr Sheela Sharma, CEO of PBC and the driving force behind the programme, explains her passion:

“While working in education - supporting students with career development, financial literacy and entrepreneurship - I saw first-hand the need for dedicated support for young entrepreneurs.

“I launched my first start-up at 11, making and selling over 1,000 hair accessories to classmates. It was thrilling and messy, full of trial and error - but I had no support, no guidance and certainly no one showing me that entrepreneurship could be a real career.

“Yet the benefits are clear: confidence, creativity and the power to make a difference in your community and beyond. At PBC, we know what it takes to nurture a business idea so we’re proud to be offering that support to the next generation.”

If you know a student bursting with creativity, curiosity and the spark of an idea, encourage them to apply. No experience needed - just the drive to learn and the courage to give it a go.

Click here to find out more and apply.