The three-day program was built on the success of the Council’s innovation sector and Sheldon College’s commitment to entrepreneurial learning by connecting tomorrow's entrepreneurs with today's innovators.

The event provided a platform for young people within the wider community, to work with other like-minded innovators to identify an opportunity to validate their ideas and to come up with a viable business plan with all important revenue streams. Sheldon College Year 7 to Year 12 students explored new ideas and collaborated in order to develop a sustainable and scalable start-up, by building and launching their own business ideas within only 36 hours. 

With students as young as 12 years of age, staff were extremely impressed with the ideas, drive and commitment shown by the students. Sheldon College students took home several pitch prizes including a mentorship with Bendigo Bank, a free ticket to Brisbane’s Premier Digital Event ‘The Something School’ and a subscription to a one-week membership to the Fishburners co-working space in Brisbane City, Brisbane’s largest co-working space for scalable Technology Start-ups.

Participants were supported by mentors and entrepreneurs who pitched their proposed projects to a panel of judges. They were then able to opt-in to business development Masterclasses. The action-packed program included an informal networking event to build connections, fireside chats, factual challenges and successes, mentoring support and inspirational keynote speakers who shared the excitement and challenges of their start-up journey.

Sheldon College parent Lisa Neilson commented on the positive impact the event has had on her son:

“My middle son, Drew (Year 8), thrived on the information and guidance provided and thoroughly enjoyed the 3 days.  Drew came home each day with such enthusiasm to be an entrepreneur, working every night till late on his projects. Within the week he had already launched 2 businesses online. Food was also provided all day Saturday and Sunday, along with supervising teachers. Please pass on my sincere thanks to all involved as I truly believe this has been a life changing summit for Drew”

The Aspiring Entrepreneur weekend schedule was designed to give students a mix of learning experiences, work time and down time with a series of optional and compulsory Masterclasses in a selection of streams to allow for self-guided learning. The entire weekend was a huge success and we are very proud of all of the participants who took part in Redland’s first YES.