21 Under 21 programme for Belfast entrepreneurs

This competition is designed to unearth, recognise, and fast-track 21 exceptional potential young entrepreneurs

Belfast City Council’s new ‘21 Under 21: Entrepreneurs to Watch in Belfast’ competition is an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to take part in a three-month programme of action-oriented workshops that will act as a springboard for future success.

Each participant on 21 under 21 will secure:

• a place at three action-orientated workshops
• direct, in-person access to entrepreneurial speakers
• direct, in-person access to local entrepreneurs who have the real-life experience and the t-shirt
• support to create a proven playbook designed to deliver instant momentum for the idea or venture
• a new network of 20 other potential entrepreneurs
• a profile as one of Belfast’s 'entrepreneurs to watch' in 2024
• the chance of a £2,000 cash boost

Eligibility criteria

You are eligible to apply if:

• you or your business has a Belfast postcode
• you have a business that is currently trading, or is on course to be trading within the next 12 months (by 31 December 2024)
• you were at least 16 years old when applications opened on 14 December 2023 and no older than 21 by completion of the programme on 31 March 2024
• you are available to attend up to four half day workshops between early February and late March 2024 - dates and times will be provided on confirmation of place.

How to apply

Shortlisting for the programme will be based on a video submission and can range from speaking to a phone or laptop to a TikTok, Instagram reel or even PowerPoint video.

Successful applicants will be notified in early January and the workshops will take place from early February until late March 2024.

Find out more about 21 Under 21: Entrepreneurs to Watch in Belfast.

First published 20 December 2023