$70M funding available to youths with innovative projects

Young persons with pioneering solutions to issues in their communities can apply to receive grants of as much as a million dollars through the Department of Culture, Youth and Sports’ Youth Innovative Project.

Some $70 million has been earmarked for distribution to individuals and groups who convince a panel of judges that their ideas are not only creative but has the potential to address issues facing communities across the country.

The funds can be accessed under the Youth Innovative Project which was launched Friday morning at the National Racquet Centre.

Youth Director Melissa Carmichael explained that eligible persons must be between the ages of 14 and 35.

Project Officer Jermaine Watson explained that applications are reviewed by a committee comprising of representatives from the University of Guyana, UNESCO, Department of Youth, and NCERD.

Meanwhile, the Youth Director explained that the projects must be aligned with the principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) as well as the green economy.

One of last year’s winners, Shemar Spencer, used his one million dollar grant to develop a barter App called ‘Swopp’ and he even employed two persons in the process. Spencer said this initiative is opportune to become your own boss given the challenging environment which young people face to find jobs.

Application forms are available at the Department of Culture, Youth and Sports on Main Street as well as on the Ministry of the Presidency’s website. Interested persons can seek guidance from the department in creating their proposals.

The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2018.