Monday, 10 August 2020
The South Australian Business Chamber has begun the search for the state’s next batch of budding entrepreneurs with its successful South Australian Young Entrepreneur Scheme (SAYES) to return for its 22nd and arguably most important year in 2020.
The peak independent business body says unearthing new talent and discovering new business potential will help the state bounce back from the devastating COVID-19 crisis.
Whether its new innovation in hand sanitiser, ideas on PPE or use of new technologies to protect the State from the ongoing COVID-19 threat, the South Australian Business Chamber CEO Martin Haese said he believed the next generation of entrepreneurs could hold the State’s future in their hands.
“If COVID-19 has taught us one thing it is to plan for a world where everything could be tipped upside down,” said Mr Haese.
“New business models and thinking are needed in a future where nothing is certain.
“Young entrepreneurs bring to the table bold ideas, imagination and a modern approach to solving problems, which our State will need as it seeks to recover from the COVID-19 crisis and adapt to ongoing uncertainty.
“Taking a business leap of faith in the current climate can be daunting, but these young entrepreneurs, who are prepared to take a risk, are key to our economic future.”
The first SAYES program was held in 1998, with more than 700 young South Australians graduating from the program since.
As part of the 12-month program, participants like Adelaide’s James Adcock, the brains behind ethical, online fashion marketplace, Local Threads, receive one-on-one mentoring and advice plus hands-on learning.
“Since starting the SAYES program in 2019 the number of brand partnership with Local Threads grew from 50 to 150,” said 20-year-old James.
“This growth could not have occurred without the invaluable advice I received from my SAYES mentor.”
SAYES is delivered in partnership with the SA Department for Innovation and Skills and is open to South Australians aged 18 – 35 with a dedicated program for regional applicants.
“The Marshall Government is backing the SAYES program, with funding of $120,000 to assist the South Australian Business Chamber deliver the program, which is an excellent initiative supporting South Australia’s young entrepreneurs in both the City and our regions,” said Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni.
“Programs like SAYES play an important role in developing new generations of entrepreneurs who will deliver sustained economic growth and jobs throughout South Australia.”
