Apply now for Earniversity Fast Track Challenge
13 to 25-year-olds can now apply for the of the Earniversity Fast Track Challenge, designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit of young innovators.
The NEEB (North Essex Economic Board), in partnership with Earniversity, is delighted to announce that applications are now open for next cohort of the Earniversity Fast Track Challenge, a dynamic 6-week programme launching October 2025 designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit of young innovators across North Essex.
What is the Fast Track Challenge?
Tailored for 13 to 25-year-olds, the Fast Track Challenge offers a hands-on, digital-first immersion into entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and employability. Inspired by a successful spring 2025 cohort, this programme blends live coaching, peer sessions, and expert mentorship to nurture business-minded creativity in real-world contexts.
Programme details
Duration – 6 weeks starting on 7 October 2025.
Eligibility – Young people aged 13 to 25 in North Essex districts of Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester, Epping Forest, Maldon, Tendring, and Uttlesford.
Format:
- 5 weeks of online skill-based training. 10 hours in total for 2 hours per week on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 7pm)
- 1 week of additional online coaching tailored to graduates, focusing on skills such as public speaking, reflection, or awards preparation
How to apply
Spots are limited, apply now and don’t miss this opportunity to turn ideas into income, projects into profits, and ambition into action.
Why join?
Proven success – In the March to May 2025 cohort, 39 students from 5 North Essex schools and colleges participated. They collectively earned £13,000 through reselling, freelancing, content creation, and other ventures.
Award-winning achievements – Standout participants included:
- Top Achiever: Robbie Roots (St John Payne School)
- Community Leader: Fiyin Folarin (The Beaulieu Park School)
- Best Final Project: Emmanuel Ranieri (The Sixth Form College), who grew a LinkedIn following by 500 in just 10 days
- Highest Earner: Mika Davies (The Beaulieu Park School), earning £1,407 through reselling
Empowerment through experience – The programme equips students with confidence, practical skills, and a clearer vision for self-employment and business ownership.
I started a Vinted account which I’d been thinking about, but the course prompted me to act. Within a few weeks I made £94. Going forward, I want to start my own art business.
Lila Davies, 18
The online coaching session taught me SEO, how to create an online post, and what freelancing is. I now have entrepreneurial skills I can apply in my future career.
Edward Warnsby, 17
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