So you think you have the skills in order to be enterprising? Now you need to think of the best way to use them. You could think of an initiative that could help both your educational institution and fellow students.
- A great time to start is during Enterprise Week. The Mark Your Mark Challenge is a one day enterprise competition for students. The challenge draws on young people's creativity, ideas and imagination to achieve an innovative solution for a product, service, event or attraction. For more information visit - www.makeyourmarkchallenge.org
- Networking events, such as the ‘Mark Your Mark Connect’ are a great opportunity to meet like minded individuals, with similar ideas and aspirations. Either join a group or make your own, for more information visit - www.makeyourmarkconnect.org/club
- Heartshill School in Nuneaton have devised a Make Your Mark Connect group. From their weekly meetings they have created a dress hire business, and have also planned improvements for their school grounds.
Still stuck for ideas? Why not try one of the following...
- Organise a fashion show
- Host a sponsored walk
- Hold a talent competition
- Form a band
- Hold an MP3 disco
- Organise a car valet service
Or try one of the following links...
- A network to allow you to post, share, and discuss ideas
www.unltdideasbank.org.uk/site/bank/idea.php?ideaId=5387 - A bank of ideas for inspiration
www.idea-a-day.com - A personal locker to store ideas, get inspiration, share ideas, and network with others
www.redbullflugelbinder.com
Once you think you've found your winning idea you need to test it. Ask family and friends for honest opinions. You may need to use their feedback in order to improve your idea.
- Ask your teacher or lecturer for their opinion.
Get organising! Try and get as many people involved as possible. Use family and friends in order to keep the costs down.
- If you are struggling to find expertise try Young Enterprise. They are a leading business and enterprise education charity and may be able to help you.
www.young-enterprise.org.uk - Although organising your idea can be tricky, remember to stick with it, as it can be very rewarding if you succeed.
- The National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship
ncge.com/content/page/85 - Develops student's leadership, teamwork and communication skills through community project.
www.sifeuk.org - Promote student union based entrepreneurship activity by sharing best practice and information.
www.officeronline.co.uk/networks/networks/entreprenuership/273688.aspx - Offering practical solutions to help change young lives
www.princes-trust.org.uk/