Youth Side Hustle program opens doors for rural entrepreneurs

By Joan Janzen

Community Futures Meridian is offering a hands-on program designed for rural youth, grades 7–12, who want to learn how to start and run their own small business.

Applications are now open for the Youth Side Hustle Program in partnership with Return to Rural Project and Community Futures Meridian Region. Participating schools include Altario, Consort, South Central High, Veteran, Youngstown, as well as Berry Creek, Jenner, JC Charyk and Warren Peers, along with students in a homeschool program.

Participants will work through practical modules focused on business ideas, branding, customers, making money and entrepreneurship skills. Those skills could include baking, photography, pet care, lawn care, online sales or any other idea that turns creativity into action. One-on-one mentorship and coaching are available to support every step along the way.

Upon completion of the program, youth will receive a cash incentive. Big dreams can start small for local youth. Entrepreneurship builds confidence, flexibility and skills that last a lifetime. For youth, especially those with visible or invisible disabilities, self-employment can offer an empowering and accessible future.

Lori Feeder, CEO at Meridian Community Futures, said they are currently working with Special Areas Regional Economic Development on this program, and encouraged people to watch their website as they hope to offer it more broadly across the Meridian area.

To apply, visit cfsask.ca/meridian-programs/youth-side-hustle-meridian.