The Social Enterprise Program
Empowering Youth to Innovate for Social Good
Youth Ottawa’s Social Enterprise Program (SEP) is a dynamic initiative designed to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among youth, enabling them to develop ventures that address pressing social and environmental challenges within their communities.
Launched in collaboration with local school boards, including the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), SEP integrates experiential learning into classrooms from grades 4 to 12.
Are you a young innovator with a vision for social change? We invite you to pitch your idea and join our community of youth entrepreneurs.
Program Overview
- Empowerment: We offer comprehensive workshops, leadership development, and career advancement opportunities.
- Advocacy: We represent youth-related issues at the municipal level, ensuring young voices are integral to decision-making.
- Community Building: We foster a sense of community and inclusivity among Ottawa's youth, fostering mutual support.
- Partnerships: We collaborate with local organizations and government bodies to address youth-related concerns.
Impact Highlights
Classroom Integration: Implemented in over 250 classrooms across Ottawa, engaging students in real-world problem-solving.
Youth Engagement: Over 550 students participated in the most recent cohort, launching more than 65 youth-led businesses.
Community Recognition: Projects have garnered attention from local leaders and media, highlighting the program’s significance in fostering youth innovation.
Beyond the Classroom
Youth Ottawa continues to support SEP entrepreneurs after the pitch by offering:
Media & Podcast Features – Showcasing youth on our Trivia 4 Tomorrow et OYJSN Podcast platforms.
Blog Spotlights – Featuring stories, updates, and calls to action on our website and social channels.
Local Media Exposure – SEP youth and their businesses have been featured on CTV Ottawa, Rogers TVtout Ottawa Business Journal.
Advertising Support – We promote standout youth ventures through our newsletters, social media, and event publications.
This media amplification helps build credibility, boost visibility, and rally the community behind Ottawa’s next generation of changemakers.
