YOUNG people in Newton Abbot with ambitions of becoming entrepreneurs are being given two opportunities later this month and in early October to develop their ideas and learn how to turn them into a business.

Learn Devon is running two new entrepreneurship courses at the Passmore Edwards Centre, pictured, aimed at people aged between 16 and 25 who are interested in self-employment or starting their own business.

The first session, Young Entrepreneurs: Getting Started, will take place on Monday, September 28, from 10am to noon.

A second course will then run over five Mondays, from October 5 to November 2, between 10am and 3pm.

The courses form part of a wider package of free business support being made available to aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses across Devon.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop their business ideas, build their skills and gain the confidence needed to take their first steps towards self-employment.

The support is intended to provide a pathway into further business assistance, including the Devon Business Support Programme, delivered by Business Information Point across Teignbridge.

The programme offers free one-to-one guidance from experienced business advisers, with support tailored to individual needs.

This can cover everything from getting a business off the ground to improving productivity, managing finances, marketing and sales, leadership, digital tools and sustainability.

Young people taking part in the Learn Devon courses could therefore use what they learn as a springboard into more specialist advice and mentoring as their business ideas develop.

There is also an opportunity for people interested in entrepreneurship to connect with the wider Devon business community at the Festival of Business, being held at Exeter College’s Future Skills Centre on September 25.

Hosted by Devon County Council and the Federation of Small Businesses, the event will bring together more than 100 local businesses, speakers and support organisations.

It will offer practical advice and information on opportunities and strategies designed to help businesses survive, thrive and grow through 2026 and beyond.

Councillor Simon Clist, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said businesses and entrepreneurs play an important role in Devon's economy by creating jobs and supporting communities.

He encouraged anyone who could benefit from expert advice to find out more about the support available and attend the Festival of Business.

For adults considering self-employment, Learn Devon is also offering online ‘Preparing for Self-Employment’ courses, running on Tuesday evenings from September 29 to November 3 and Monday evenings from November 9 to December 14.

Together, the programmes are designed to give people at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey access to the knowledge, skills, confidence and advice they need to turn an idea into a viable business.

Young people interested in the Newton Abbot courses can find out more by contacting Learn Devon at [email protected] or on 01392 384094