Young entrepreneurs in the Inverness and Nairn area are being urged to get down to business with the launch of an innovative new training programme. The Bizz Ness project has been designed for those who are eligible for the Skillseekers programme but who would ultimately like to start their own business or become self-employed.

The aim is to help young people develop their skills, knowledge and attitudes equipping them with the right attributes to be able to manage and run a business of their own. The course could lead to self-employment for some or simply boost the employment prospects of all the individuals taking part in the programme.

The Bizz Ness project has been developed by Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE), part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network, but will be managed by Inverness-based company, Development Partners. It will cater for 10-12 young people at any one time and will last approximately 52 weeks in total although, being a rolling programme, participants can join or leave at any time.

The project begins with an induction, providing participants with a general awareness of business management and ownership. Business awareness sessions and enterprise training skills follow this and the group will eventually start their own 'business' which will raise money for a local charity or provide a community service. Working in a group, business skills will be developed in a realistic environment with actual consequences.

Among the topics that participants will be looking at during the programme are how to produce a comprehensive business plan, financial control, VAT, cash flows, tax, marketing and advertising.

People on the programme will be able to start their own real business during their training and if appropriate, will receive backing from INE in terms of funding and advice. It is expected that some participants will leave during the course of the year as they take up business opportunities, employment or go on to further training but new budding entrepreneurs will be recruited in their place.

Ian Fraser, head of skills development at INE said: "We hope that those taking part in the Bizz Ness project will eventually start small businesses or enter self-employment. The programme will have a significant impact on the individuals, gaining enterprise skills and enhancing their employment prospects.

"It is hoped that the project will bring possible young business partners together and participants are set to gain confidence, motivation and self esteem as well as vocational qualifications."

INE chief executive Bill Sylvester said: "Opportunities for young people are essential in order to maintain a vibrant, healthy economy. New entrepreneurs and fresh business ideas are very important and this project will encourage young people to think about setting up in business for themselves.

"The Bizz Ness programme is an innovative idea and will help towards achieving the Network's objectives for growing businesses and developing skills."

Bob Dalgarno of Development Partners, the company managing the project, said: "Young people who are keen to work for themselves need a fast track method of gaining experience in creative thinking, project management and financial control. The Bizz Ness project will provide this for them while it also allows them time to develop their own idea."

For more information on the Bizz Ness project please contact Rhona Fraser at INE on tel: 01463 713504.