The SPARK Skilled Youth Entrepreneurship Competition has officially opened applications for its 2024 edition, inviting young individuals aged 15-30 years to participate. The competition, organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, offers a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop their business ideas into viable ventures.
SPARK is divided into two categories: the School Category and the Open Category, targeting both school students and young adults. It focuses on enhancing entrepreneurship skills and providing exposure through various stages, including online workshops, business pitching, a bootcamp, and one-on-one mentoring.
Ceylon Chamber of Commerce CEO Buwenakabahu Perera emphasized the organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent and showcasing the next generation of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs through active collaboration with private sector partners.
In its second year, SPARK 2024 builds on last year’s success, where top competitors gained exposure to advanced innovation ecosystems in Hyderabad, India. Supported by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the South Asia Leadership in Entrepreneurship (SALE) project, and funded by the US Department of State, the competition aims to promote youth entrepreneurship and create an enabling environment for startups in Sri Lanka.
ILO Chief Technical Advisor Dr. Thomas Kring encouraged youth to apply, highlighting the competition’s role in providing invaluable skills, networking opportunities, and international exposure.
The competition will culminate in a grand finale in September. Interested students and young innovators can apply via the SPARK website at https://spark.chamber.lk/. Entries are open until July 30, 2024.
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