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Fostering Innovation: Test Valley Young Entrepreneurs Program Returns for 2024

The quest for Test Valley’s future business leaders is set to begin once again as the Test Valley Young Entrepreneurs Program, formerly known as the Youth in Test Valley Awards, returns for 2024.

This unique fusion contest, blending elements of Dragons’ Den and The Apprentice, is a golden opportunity for 14-18-year-olds across the Borough to showcase their entrepreneurial prowess and win substantial investment and mentorship from local businesses.

Nominations to participate in the program officially open on Monday, 5th February, at 10am, and aspiring young entrepreneurs have until Friday 8th March, at 5pm to submit their nomination. The nomination form will be made available on www.thelocalmarketingcompany.co.uk/bta

Building on the success of last year, the investment for the winning participant is yet again confirmed to be an impressive £1,000. This sponsorship is made possible through generous sponsorship from local businesses and councils that share the commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of Test Valley’s youth, including New Street Dental Care, a high-quality dental practice in Andover, which is back as the program’s Main Sponsor for the second year running.

Dmitrijs Meiksans MYP, an Andover-based marketing director and the program’s coordinator, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received, stating, “We are thankful for the amazing support from businesses and council partners, enabling us to invest even more in the young people involved in this program.”

Alongside New Street Dental Care as the Main Sponsor, The IncuHive Space and The DeeDee Trust return as sponsors for the program this year, with Angel Call Handling and The Local Marketing Company joining the sponsors for the first time this year. Test Valley Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Andover Town Council and Romsey Town Council return as the supporting local authorities for the program. Their collective contribution highlights the shared commitment to invest in the future leaders of the Borough.