Building strong, resilient communities – one social enterprise at a time. That is the goal of some passionate young people, participating in the Innovate for Impact program.

The initiative by Community Futures East Kootenay (CFEK) in partnership with Impact Toolbox, is advancing social entrepreneurship in the Kootenays and supporting purpose-driven innovators with the tools, training, and community to build impactful, sustainable ventures.

“Over the last few months, high school students throughout the Kootenays have been developing their ideas for social enterprises as well as their entrepreneurial skills,” said Robyn Peel, Community Economic Development Manager with CFEK. “They started by identifying real problems in their communities and with a flexible, hands-on online curriculum and the support of mentors, they designed solutions and built social enterprise ideas from the ground up.”

The program offered young people a chance to explore leadership and innovation to strengthen local communities and design impactful projects.

On Thursday, May 28, starting at 5:30 p.m., select youth teams will present their bold ideas at the Innovate for Impact Youth Pitch Showcase.

The community is invited to join the online event to support the next generation of innovators transforming their communities. A jury will select outstanding projects to receive funding to help bring ideas to life.

Awards are funded by StellerVista Credit Union and CFEK.

For those who want to dive even deeper into the social enterprise movement in the region, CFEK is hosting Kootenay Late Night on Tuesday, June 2.

The online Social Impact Summit will showcase stories from around the Kootenay region of social impact leaders and community builders.

“There is no shortage of people doing remarkable things, transforming their communities,” added Peel. “This virtual, talk show-style celebration will give them a chance to share their stories.”

Register for the Zoom links to join both events HERE.

For those wanting to get involved more actively with Innovate for Impact and support the next wave of big ideas, CFEK is offering an information session for individuals looking to work with youth groups in the next cohort starting in the fall. This opportunity is ideal for teachers, youth workers, coaches and community leaders who already have a group of youth in mind.

Mentors will receive a ready-to-use curriculum and active support as well as a $500 stipend.

An information session will be hosted on Tuesday, June 9, at 4:30 p.m. A registration link to the event as well as the application form to become a mentor are also available on the Innovate for Impact website.

Community Futures East Kootenay

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