Shell LiveWIRE was launched in 1982 and is sponsored by Shell UK Ltd. It promotes enterprise amongst 16-30 year olds by encouraging them, and their advisors, to see starting a business as a viable career option. It encourages sound business planning and continual monitoring in order to increase startups' survival chances and also provides a business information resource.
Who is eligible?
Anyone aged between 16-30 can contact Shell LiveWIRE. Applicants for the young business startups awards have to be aged 16-30, running their own business and within their first 18 months of trading. Young businesses already up and running could also find Shell LiveWIRE's range of business publications and training packs useful. These are free, or very cheap, and cover a range of topics such as managing people; business planning; market research; and how to become a successful owner manager.
What does it offer?
Year round help and advice
Shell LiveWIRE's first point of contact is their website www.shell-livewire.org. Budding entrepreneurs can register for a free account to access a range of tools and resources including ‘My Business Kit’ which includes content tailored to the user, and handy guides on writing a business plan, conducting market research, and the legal issues of starting up in business. Members can also post questions or ask for advice from fellow users on the popular Shell LiveWIRE Discussion Forum and receive a free business profile and blog on the international Shell LiveWIRE Social Network.
Awards
Shell LiveWIRE runs two types of awards for young entrepreneurs (aged 16-30) in the UK. The Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards sees up to 5 prizes of £1,000 given out each month to innovative new business ideas in the first 12 months of trading. Applicants have until the last day of each month to submit their applications online.
Shell LiveWIRE also runs the annual Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Applicants complete an online application form at www.shell-livewire.org/awards before being shortlisted to submit a business plan and pitch to a panel of judges prior to a national final. The national winner receives £10,000 and the title of Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
How does it work?
Young business people should visit the Shell LiveWIRE website and register for a free account in order to access the full range of resources available, and to apply for the awards.
Does it work?
Since the scheme started in 1982, it has helped more than 600,000 young people, offering free local advice, information and business support. Shell LiveWIRE has over 106,000 members worldwide.
Where to go for further help
The website address is www.shell-livewire.org
email enquiries@shell-livewire.org
Shell LiveWIRE
Design Works Unit 15
William Street
Felling
Gateshead
Tyne & Wear
NE10 0JP