Businesses in Hull are being urged to support young entrepreneurs by becoming business mentors.

Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership and the Making Changes for Careers Programme at Hull City Council are looking for businesses to take part in a mentoring programme to encourage aspiring young people to start their own businesses. They are working with the Youth Enterprise Bank, which has supported more than 450 enterprising young people.

Young entrepreneurs benefit greatly from the support of business mentors who play a crucial part in the development and success of their company. The programme gives the mentors an opportunity to be recognised for their work in the community.

Companies who engage with the mentor programme will receive official recognition from the Youth Enterprise Bank for investing their time and effort into assisting enterprising start-ups. They will be given the opportunity to meet other partners to exchange ideas on the city’s commercial issues and play an integral part in shaping future initiatives through the Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership.

Kirsty Barr, Youth Enterprise Officer at Hull City Council, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership to secure more mentors for the ever-growing number of young entrepreneurs in the city and we are always happy to hear from experienced business-owners willing to help and advise the next generation.

“Our businesses and start-ups are at the centre of the north’s economic growth, and nothing beats receiving tips and advice firsthand from professionals within a similar industry.

“Our aim is to ensure that we, alongside a business mentor, can support each and every young entrepreneur across the city so that they never feel like they have to face a challenge alone."

Danny Barker, Vice Chair of the Youth Enterprise Bank, said: "The work is highly satisfying for volunteers and often inspirational, in both understanding and witnessing first-hand how young people overcome seemingly insurmountable hurdles, both in their business and private lives in order that they can create their own jobs.

“Invariably, the clients are incredibly grateful for the time provided by the volunteers. I have certainly found my time as a mentor for the Youth Enterprise Bank and making changes for careers programme very rewarding."

If you own or have experience in running a business, are willing to share your drive and enthusiasm and are able to meet once a month, email charles.cracknell@hullcc.gov.uk or call 07990 510211. For more details, follow Hull Youth Enterprise on Twitter at @HullsEnterprise.