The John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank (JCYEB) has issued its 1,000th grant. Jessica Ware, of Hull-based Jesy's Jewellery, was part of Hull City Council’s Making Changes for Careers Programme (MC4C).
JCYEB, now in its 20th year, works closely with the council and not only gives grants to aspiring young entrepreneurs, but it also matches them up with an experienced mentor.
Alongside the council, it is currently helping support young entrepreneurs with Test Market Grants from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, portfolio holder for regeneration at the council, said: “I am pleased to recognise the milestone grant to Jessica Ware of Jesy’s Jewellery.
“As the local authority, the council has a commitment to the micro business community in general through its support for the Micro Business Alliance and the recent expansion of its youth enterprise and micro business team.
“For aspiring young entrepreneurs it’s not always about high growth and expansion, it’s about building self-confidence and self-esteem as well as enjoying what they are doing.
“Many of them are wanting to put something back into their community because they feel it’s the right thing to do and, for that reason, I am pleased that so many young people have benefitted from JCYEB during the last 20 years.”
Jessica, who received £422.21, said: “MC4C and JCYEB has really helped improve my confidence and helped me set up my business.
“I cannot thank them enough for all the help and support they showed me, so thank you so much to everyone, in particular the advisors at Hull City Council.”
Maureen Foers OBE, JCYEB president, said: “Having helped launch JCYEB alongside John’s son 20 years ago, it is remarkable the support it continues to give micro businesses such as Jesy’s Jewellery.
“Businesspeople such as Jessica play a vital role in ensuring our economy turns the corner and is a keen focus of the council’s Youth Enterprise and Micro Business team.
“As JCYEB president, I will always be grateful for the support received from Mark Jones and the council.”
Find out more about JCYEB and funding opportunities here.
