YOUNG entrepreneurs are being given the opportunity to showcase their business prowess and win substantial investment, along with mentorship from a Test Valley business.

The search to find Test Valley's future business leaders will begin next month as the Test Valley Young Entrepreneurs Program, formerly known as the Youth in Test Valley Awards, returns for 2024.

This unique contest, blending elements of Dragons' Den and The Apprentice, is an opportunity for 14 to 18-year-olds across the borough to showcase their talents and win a package of support and investment.

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Andover Advertiser: Stakeholders and finalists at last year’s finale at the Guildhall, in AndoverNominations to participate in the program officially open on Monday, February, 5 at 10am, and aspiring young entrepreneurs have until Friday, March 8, at 5pm to submit their nomination.

Building on the success of last year, the investment for the winning participant will yet again be £1,000.

This investment is made possible through sponsorship from businesses and councils, including New Street Dental Care, which is back as the program’s main sponsor for the second year running.

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The program’s coordinator Dmitrijs Meiksans MYP, an Andover-based marketing director, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received.

He said: “We are thankful for the amazing support from businesses and council partners, enabling us to invest even more in the young people involved in this program."

Alongside New Street Dental Care as the main sponsor, The IncuHive Space and The DeeDee Trust return as sponsors for the program this year, with Angel Call Handling and The Local Marketing Company joining the sponsors for the first time this year.

Test Valley Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Andover Town Council and Romsey Town Council return as the supporting local authorities for the program.

The nomination form will be made available on thelocalmarketingcompany.co.uk/bta.