Be Your Own Boss
An evidence-based entrepreneurship programme equipping young people with the skills, networks, and confidence to launch their own food and drink businesses.
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Programme Summary
Be Your Own Boss is our hands-on entrepreneurship programme designed to help you explore what it takes to run your own food business. Whether you are launching a start-up or building new career skills, we provide the essential training and a supportive, like-minded community to help you succeed.
Proven Impact
Data from our pilot cohorts demonstrates the tangible success of this model.
3
Community Programmes Delivered
6 to 8
Weeks of Hands-On Commercial Training
18%
Increase in Participant Confidence
25%
Strengthening of Personal Support Networks
The Programme Toolkit
Inside the Toolkit
We have condensed the results of our Be Your Own Boss programmes into an evidence-based blueprint for inclusive growth. Designed for local councils, charities, and community organisations, this toolkit serves as a practical instruction manual for replicating our model. Download the guide for co-design strategies, session structures, and actionable steps to generate meaningful local employment.
Watch the Journey
Experience the reality of the programme through our four-part documentary series, following our cohorts from initial concept to final launch.
Episode 1 / Introduction
Discover the Youth Enterprise Blueprint from Growing Kent & Medway. This episode introduces the programme and its unique co-designed methodology. We explore regional youth unemployment challenges and outline the strategic aims driving this successful pilot project.
Episode 3 / Interviews
Hear directly from participants about the success of the programme. This episode validates the model, which achieved a verified 18% increase in participant confidence and 25% stronger support networks. Essential viewing for funders seeking proven social ROI.
Episode 2 / The Project
Learn how to run an effective, low-cost youth enterprise programme. This episode details our methodology, showcasing a hands-on approach using sustainable food development and community resources. Essential viewing for managers looking for replicable educational content.
Episode 4 / Showcase
Explore the legacy of the Be Your Own Boss programme. This final episode captures the Showcase event, demonstrating genuine participant ownership and community engagement. Discover how our Toolkit bridges innovation with local action to deliver verifiable impact.
Community Highlights
Programme News Archive
Growing Kent & Medway
5 min read
Growing Kent & Medway
4 min read
Growing Kent & Medway
3 min read