20 Finnish Teens Get Summer Entrepreneurship Vouchers in Laukaa

A new summer entrepreneurship voucher program launched in Laukaa has generated immediate interest among local ninth-grade students. The pilot initiative provides twenty young people with the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship over the summer with low barriers to entry. Participants do not need prior work experience or a fully developed business idea to apply. The program is designed to encourage youth to build small enterprises based on their personal interests and strengths. Applicants must first go through an interview process. Those selected will receive a summer entrepreneurship voucher and take part in a six-hour 4H business training session. This training is scheduled for April to give students enough time to prepare. Participants will identify their individual skills, strengths, and areas of interest. They will also begin drafting a business plan for their 4H enterprise. According to Jalonen, the timing of the training ensures that all necessary preparations can be completed ahead of the summer break. Jalonen also advises students to develop their business activities around their own hobbies and passions. The program aims to make entrepreneurship accessible and practical for young people during the summer months. Support from organizations such as Keski-Suomen Osuuspankki and Keski-Suomen Yrittäjät is acknowledged in connection with the initiative.