ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A CAREER PATH 

Starting a business is a bold step. It takes creativity, resilience and self-belief, and finding guidance can be challenging. Young people from Wirral who want to start their own businesses are lucky enough to have the resources of the only youth enterprise hub in the North West on their doorstep!

Spark Enterprise Hub is a youth-led service for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 16 to 30. Alongside the Youth Employment Hub, Spark empowers young people to take control of their future. Through mentorship, community support and business programmes, it aims to convert young people’s ambitions into action and social deprivation into economic impact.

A hub of opportunity and innovation

Spark has provided information and support to almost 1,500 young people. Over forty have transformed their business ideas into reality, and over a hundred now feel confident enough to start their own businesses. Since it opened four years ago, 76% of Spark’s entrepreneurs are still trading. 

Kevin Rodgers, founder and CEO, explains:

‘The young people who walk through the door are typically at a crossroads in life, and invariably, they need the right skills, attributes and qualities to move forward. Everybody who joins becomes a member; there are no labels here at Spark.

‘We achieve our impact by building a bridge between communities, corporates and young people. With our support, all members map out a career or a business, going way beyond just getting a job.’

Spark has just undergone a re-brand, launched a new website, and is moving all its services under one roof at Wirral Point in Birkenhead. Kevin adds:

‘2025 is set to be a big year. We are extending our board to include young people. And our Pathway to Enterprise initiative, which champions innovation and creative thinking, is set to grow. It has been kite marked and endorsed by Liverpool Business School at John Moores University- so watch this space!’

The value of Spark’s social impact is estimated at £24 million. Their programmes are designed so local young people, including those who might have some barriers to fulfilling their full potential, can explore the world of entrepreneurship.

Empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs

The Spark Enterprise Hub empowers local young people aged 16-30 to explore new ideas or develop an existing one. As members of Spark, they can access different programmes that range from three weeks to six months, each designed to match their circumstances and aspirations. Have a read and find out if any of these are for you or somebody you know:

Pathway to Enterprise

Are you a creative thinker with a good business concept? You might have a creative idea, have left mainstream education, or be wondering where to start an entrepreneurial journey. 

Pathway to Enterprise is a fast-paced three-week course to develop your business mindset and get you on the road to success. Twice a week for three weeks, you’ll develop your brand-building skills, conquer budgets and get ready to pitch your idea to a panel of experts. 

This programme prepares you to pursue your entrepreneurial journey.

Boss Your Business

Focused on locals aged 19+ who want to explore self-employment, Boss Your Business offers a level 2 Certificate in Creating a Business Start-Up, thanks to support from partner organisations. 

Boss Your Business runs for six weeks. You will cover important areas in depth, such as market research, legal considerations, and financial planning. 

Business Bootcamp

Budding entrepreneurs facing challenges to their success can enrol in the Business Bootcamp. The Bootcamp is much more than a programme. If you have a business idea, it’s a launchpad for you to turn your dream into reality. 

Over six months, you’ll undertake a transformative journey, evolving from someone with ambition and ideas to a confident business owner. The programme blends hands-on learning, cutting-edge business strategies, and one-on-one mentorship to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit. 

Through a unique blend of practical workshops, real-world challenges, and inspiring mentorship, you will craft your business ideas into a thriving venture. You won’t leave without an MVP – this is a Minimum Viable Product. In other words, a product or service you can take to market and test! As if this isn’t enough, you will be guided on how to pitch your idea to an investor and have the opportunity to showcase your business at the end-of-programme business expo.

Set For Success

Businesses that have been developed through Spark programmes include:

• Wirral Webs: a business that buys and sells new and pre-loved Nike trainers
• Helix Media: a Liverpool-based video production and motion graphics agency
• @RianneMade: the founder creates and sells cute fashion items to be sold at local markets

Matthew Williams, from Helix Media, told us how Spark played an important role in his entrepreneurial journey. He says:

‘Through Spark, I had access to business advice from professionals in the industry. Learning how to pitch for – and win – business transformed Helix Media. It took me from working a side hustle as a student to producing content for big names like Kaplan Education, The Climbing Hangar and the Netball Super League team, Severn Stars!’

Incubate your idea

Spark Enterprise Hub [https://we-are-spark.org/] will help you develop your idea and yourself as an entrepreneur. Here’s what’s on offer if you become a member:

• Free workstations and internet access 
• Career guidance and support services 
• Inclusive workshops, career talks and networking events
• Personalised mentoring and coaching 
• Pathways to employment opportunities, training, and regular events 

The resources act as a stepping stone allowing you to push boundaries with a safety net of support. Find out more at Spark Enterprise Hub