Twenty young entrepreneurs who are looking to accelerate their business ideas in the environment conservation and waste management space are taking part in the Youth Business Incubator Programme, was launched last week.

The Youth Incubator Programme builds on the existing Business Accelerator Programme, under the Samoa Business Hub (SBH).

Over the next ten weeks, participants will be involved in a series of business development trainings, mentoring, coaching, and networking events, culminating in a pitching competition.

This is part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s Circular Economy for the Recovery of Waste (CERO Waste) Project, which seeks to pilot value chain development in waste management in Samoa and Tokelau to explore and test innovative, adaptable and scalable circular solutions for the recovery of low-value plastic, glass and paper waste streams.

The CERO Waste project aims to divert waste from landfills to address immediate waste management and pollution challenges in Samoa and Tokelau.

The UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Verena Linneweber says that an important component under this project, UNDP wants to help create employment for young people in circular waste recovery industries in Samoa and Tokelau.

Its their hope that by the end of this programme, the participants will have developed the confidence to kick-start their innovative business ideas. Over time, they are hopeful that employment opportunities will be created from these businesses.

The Youth Incubator Programme aims to nurture and develop innovative business solutions to waste recovery and waste management through trainings and the provision of resources for young entrepreneurs.