Entrepreneurial Skills Showcase for Students Across Northern Ireland Students from Northern Ireland are preparing to showcase their entrepreneurial skills in a dynamic and competitive environment. This initiative offers a unique platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to demonstrate their innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and business acumen. Participants will engage in various activities designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and real-world application of entrepreneurial concepts....
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In an effort to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among young minds, the Northern Ireland Schools Business Challenge will return on February 17. This annual event invites secondary school students from across the region to participate in a dynamic competition addressing real-life business scenarios set by industry leaders.
Sponsored by Queen’s Business School, Henderson Group, and BDO NI, with support from CCEA, the challenge encourages students to unleash their creativity and innovation. More than 100 AS and A-Level students are expected to gather at the impressive Riddel Hall, where enthusiasm and ambition will fill the air.
Creativity in action
Participants will be tasked with developing actionable business plans that tackle specific challenges posed by Henderson Group, a significant player in the retail and wholesale sector. Teams will need to collaborate, combining their diverse ideas and strategies to create innovative yet practical solutions.
Pitching to the experts
After developing their plans, students will present their proposals to a panel of expert judges who will assess their work based on creativity, feasibility, and presentation skills. This experience provides invaluable insights into the business world, allowing participants to apply theoretical knowledge from the classroom to real-world situations.
Laura Jackson, a partner and head of audit at BDO NI, expressed her excitement for the event’s return, stating, “The Schools Business Challenge is an extraordinary opportunity for young entrepreneurs to learn directly from industry professionals. Every year, we are inspired by the ambition and creativity demonstrated by students across Northern Ireland.”
Celebrating achievements in the community
Alongside the Schools Business Challenge, the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce is preparing for its President’s Banquet on November 27. This prestigious event will celebrate the remarkable legacy of The Open, highlighting its impact on local prosperity. The banquet will include an array of entertainment, featuring notable guests such as Sky Sports presenter Nick Dougherty and former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley.
Honoring emergency services
Another significant event on the horizon is the Northern Ireland Blue Light Awards, which will return in 2026. These awards recognize the dedication and bravery of emergency services personnel across the region. New categories have been introduced, highlighting contributions to diversity and the unsung heroes behind the scenes who ensure the smooth operation of emergency services.
Free to enter, the awards are open to all branches of Northern Ireland’s emergency services, celebrating those who go above and beyond in their duties. With 18 award categories, this initiative aims to unite and honor the spirit of service within the community.
Embracing youth innovation at the Big Market
The tenth annual Big Market, organized by Young Enterprise NI, will showcase the entrepreneurial talents of young people across Northern Ireland on December 10 at St George’s Market. This event has evolved into a vibrant celebration of youth innovation, allowing students aged 10-18 to sell their products and services directly to the public.
Supported by Belfast City Council, this market offers students practical experience while boosting their confidence in their entrepreneurial abilities. The event is expected to be a significant milestone in the local community, highlighting the creativity and enterprise of young individuals.
A festive touch in Newry
Sponsored by Queen’s Business School, Henderson Group, and BDO NI, with support from CCEA, the challenge encourages students to unleash their creativity and innovation. More than 100 AS and A-Level students are expected to gather at the impressive Riddel Hall, where enthusiasm and ambition will fill the air.0
Sponsored by Queen’s Business School, Henderson Group, and BDO NI, with support from CCEA, the challenge encourages students to unleash their creativity and innovation. More than 100 AS and A-Level students are expected to gather at the impressive Riddel Hall, where enthusiasm and ambition will fill the air.1
Sponsored by Queen’s Business School, Henderson Group, and BDO NI, with support from CCEA, the challenge encourages students to unleash their creativity and innovation. More than 100 AS and A-Level students are expected to gather at the impressive Riddel Hall, where enthusiasm and ambition will fill the air.2
