Essex’s reputation as a county of entrepreneurs is built on creating real opportunities for future founders - an approach brought to life at Chelmsford College’s recent Youth Business Event, supported by Invest Chelmsford Business.
Held at the end of April, the event brought together an inspiring mix of young learners, local businesses and successful alumni, creating a dynamic space focused on enterprise, skills development and real-world opportunity. Learners from Trades, Hair & Beauty, Media, RE START and Business courses were all given the chance to explore self-employment and entrepreneurship as viable career pathways.
A core strength of the event was its focus on connecting education with industry. Local businesses and organisations including Thickbroom, Ambitious Essex, Spark, National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) and Chelmsford College alumni hosted stalls and delivered practical workshops, offering learners insight into what it takes to start and grow a business.
From branding and marketing through to customer engagement and early-stage planning, sessions were designed to build the practical skills and confidence needed to turn ideas into reality. A structured timetable ensured every learner could engage with exhibitors and attend workshops, maximising exposure to different aspects of enterprise.
This strong emphasis on skills development reflects Chelmsford’s proactive approach to driving local economic growth, ensuring young people are equipped not only with qualifications, but with the mindset and capabilities needed to succeed in business.
Alumni Ryan Owers and Callum Ridgers delivered particularly popular sessions, sharing their journeys from Chelmsford College students to successful business owners. Their relatable experiences helped bring entrepreneurship to life, demonstrating that starting a business is an achievable goal for local young people.
One standout moment came from Heidi, a learner from the college’s Bespoke Provision, who presented a card game she has developed. After discussing her idea with one of the attending businesses, she received an offer of support to help bring her product to market.
This type of direct connection—where an idea can quickly evolve into a tangible opportunity—highlights the strength of Chelmsford’s business ecosystem and the value of creating spaces where learners and employers can collaborate.
The Youth Business Event once again demonstrated the impact of collaboration between education providers, local businesses and economic development partners. It provided learners with not only inspiration, but access to networks, knowledge and opportunities that can shape their futures.
As Chelmsford and the wider Essex economy continue to prioritise skills, innovation and inclusive growth, initiatives like this underline a clear message: supporting young entrepreneurs today is key to sustaining a thriving business community tomorrow.
If you have any questions or need further information about the exciting opportunities in Chelmsford, our dedicated team is here to help.
Contact Us