Young Entrepreneur Academy
Welcome to the Young Entrepreneur Academy
Every successful business starts with an idea
Whether you’ve launched a side hustle, become self-employed, created the next big brand or simply learning how your business works, the Young Entrepreneur Academy is designed to give you the knowledge and skills to help you grow.
Over 6 months, you'll join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs while developing your business through practical learning, business challenges, expert mentoring and real-world experience.
Our Mission
To inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing the tools, opportunities and connections needed to build successful businesses and strengthen the local economy.
For more information on what the Academy will offer as well as FAQ's, download our information guide here - Young Entrepreneur Academy.
Who is eligible and how to apply
Eligibility:
18-30 years old
Have a business trading for 12 months or less (or be willing to have opened trading by the start time of your cohort)
Have a home address within the Rushcliffe area
You can apply by completing the application form below and submitting this with your 12 month business plan. If you are still in the pre-start up stage, feel free to use the business plan template below as a starting point. We are are looking for potential and viability in the business plans - not perfection.
Applications will open on 1st December 2026 and close on 31st January 2027. Interviews will be held w/c 8th February. Don't worry, interviews will be kept largely informal.
To apply, please send your completed application form and business plan to econdev@rushcliffe.gov.uk by 5:00pm on Sunday 31st January 2027.
Online Information Session
We will be holding an online information session for people who are thinking of applying. This will be hosted by the Economic Growth Team at RBC and will outline the Academy's purpose, structure and timeline. There will also be opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
This session will be invite only. To register yourself and receive the meeting link, please email bryder@rushcliffe.gov.uk