I have asked myself many times, where and why are entrepreneurs created? Why is it that from a young age some kids are interested in business and get started on a project, (think lemonade stand) and others have simply no interest at all.
Given it is currently school holidays and I wondered whether there might be hundreds if not thousands of young people working on their enterprise.
I was recently in Newcastle on a leadership study tour and I met a young entrepreneur (age 11) who was constantly evolving his offering – making ‘finger boards’ (skate board for fingers) for his fellow students. He tells me he has watched every episode of Shark Tank Australia (which is now available on Youtube and a great resource for schools).
Whilst Shark Tank remains inspiration for many young people, being able to share their idea with an entrepreneur could be invaluable.
When speaking with Helen Baker Founder of Spill the Beans, who I worked with in a Pitchfest for young people last year, she was recently on a panel and challenged by the question of how more young people have access to entrepreneurs.
She seized upon the idea of creating matching entrepreneurs with schools. Where entrepreneurs can volunteer some time to meet with students, work with teachers and collaborate on entrepreneurial projects.
And ASPiRE (Australian Schools Program for In Resident Entrepreneurs) was created. Since sharing the idea and doing a few posts on LinkedIn she has been contacted by both schools and entrepreneurs alike.
I’m pleased to be a part of the program and collaborating with Helen and the team to bring this program to life. How wonderful it will be to have entrepreneurs as role models and mentors to students throughout Australia (and beyond).
I’ve always been incredibly passionate about education, entrepreneurship and innovation, which is why partnering with Spill the Beans makes so much sense for me. It is such an innovative approach to support teachers and schools in building the entrepreneurial ‘muscle’ within schools.
ASPiRE works to match entrepreneurs with schools to assist with their business and entrepreneurial programs. The Entrepreneur In Residence is a voluntary position, working alongside educators, helping to mentor students, volunteering their time and assisting in the development of transferable entrepreneurial skills in students, ultimately helping students to thrive in life and in particular, on their post-school journey.
I know many entrepreneurs who love to share what they have learned, and are inspired by the next generation, however they are not quite sure how to engage with schools. And schools are looking for confidence in the entrepreneurs’ abilities and expertise.
Helen has a big vision to support young people’s entrepreneurial aspirations, to take their enterprise beyond the ‘lemonade stand’ and I am really happy to put my efforts behind such an innovative way of connecting people.
Who knows which next generation of entrepreneurs we will meet through the program.
For more details (for educators or entrepreneurs of how to get involved contact us directly via this link.
One thing we know is the world of look will be very different by the time our young people leave school. And having an entrepreneurial appetite will give them another choice as they consider their work options
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Entrepreneur in Residence Program for Schools
What is an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program for schools?
An Entrepreneur in Residence program is an innovative educational initiative that brings an experienced, real-world entrepreneur into a school or university. Their role is to mentor students, teach practical business skills, and act as a living bridge between academic theory and the practical realities of starting and running a business.
Why is teaching entrepreneurship so important for students today?
Teaching entrepreneurship is crucial because it equips students with essential life skills that are valuable for any future career path. It goes beyond just business creation; it fosters a mindset of resilience, creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and financial literacy, preparing students to be more adaptable and proactive in a rapidly changing world.
How do students directly benefit from an EIR program?
Students gain invaluable real-world insights that cannot be found in a textbook. They receive direct mentorship on their ideas, learn practical skills like pitching and networking, and build the confidence to pursue their ambitions. The program makes the abstract concept of entrepreneurship tangible, relatable, and achievable.
What does an Entrepreneur in Residence actually do within the school?
An EIR typically runs hands-on workshops, judges student pitch competitions, holds one-on-one mentoring "office hours," and connects the school with the broader business and startup community. They act as a coach, a sounding board, and an inspirational role model for aspiring young innovators.
How can a school get started with its own EIR program?
A school can start by reaching out to its network of successful alumni, partnering with local business organizations or chambers of commerce, and defining a clear set of goals for the program. Starting with a small pilot, perhaps focused on a specific project or a short-term residency, is an excellent way to build momentum and demonstrate the program's immense value.
