The Virgin Media Pioneers programme are looking for 100 people across the UK who need to be nominated by ‘partner’ organisations (Princes Trust, Business Link Operators etc) to become ‘pioneers’.
The criteria are:
- 18-30 with less than one year trading
- Nomination by partner organisations
- Experience disadvantage ie
– Low educational attainment
– Socio-economic deprivation
– Rural community
– Unemployed
– Ex-offender
– Disability (consideration given to accessibility)
The pioneers will received £150 kick-start digital bursary, a Disgo hand-held video camera, free VM broadband, free installation and landline calls for 12 months, access to training and networking opportunities and also potential to be ‘PR’d’ by Virgin Media.
Neil Berkett, CEO of Virgin Media said, “We need to close the gap between the number of young people with a great idea and those who are able to make it happen. The digital world can open up new opportunities and experiences for people and, as a brand founded in entrepreneurial ambition, our partnership with Enterprise UK will help create an environment that supports the needs of potential entrepreneurs.”
Scott Cain, Deputy Chief Executive of Enterprise UK said: “Promoting entrepreneurship has never been more vital as entrepreneurs and their ideas have a critical role in driving the economic recovery. Our goal with Virgin Media is to equip disadvantaged young entrepreneurs to succeed. As one of the pioneers of broadband in the UK, Virgin Media is the perfect partner to bring together young entrepreneurs, experienced business people and experts and help harness a whole range of talents and release entrepreneurial ambition across the UK.”
The partnership with Enterprise UK continues Virgin Media’s commitment to bringing the benefits of broadband to a range of communities across the UK.
For more information, go to www.enterpriseuk.org or www.virginmedia.com