Empowering Youth Through Innovation: YIC Programmes
Our Core Programmes
1. Bootcamps (Organised by NEIP)
These intensive bootcamps are the starting point of the YIC journey. Participants receive hands-on training in entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development. They also gain essential skills to refine their ideas, prepare for the next phase of the programme, and pitch to stakeholders.
What’s Covered:
- Fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
- Idea validation and business model development.
- Networking with fellow innovators.
2. Advanced Incubation Programme (Organised by MEST)
Selected participants from the bootcamps progress to the advanced incubation programme, which is delivered in three stages. At each stage, participants undergo rigorous training, mentorship, and evaluations to ensure they are equipped to scale their ideas and businesses.
Stages:
- Stage 1: Ideation and Prototyping
- Stage 2: Product Development and Market Fit
- Stage 3: Business Scaling and Investment Readiness
At each stage, participants compete and are evaluated for progression, ensuring only the most viable and impactful ideas move forward.
3. Maker Spaces
Our Maker Spaces are open to all participants in the YIC programme, regardless of their stage, as well as the local community. They provide access to cutting-edge equipment and tools, offering innovators the resources they need to prototype, build, and test their ideas.
Key Highlights:
- Hands-on access to 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and more.
- Collaborative environments for peer-to-peer learning.
- Support from experts and mentors in various fields.
4. Mentorship Programme
Participants are matched with experienced mentors based on their specific needs. Mentors guide participants through challenges, offer insights, and connect them to resources and networks.
Focus Areas:
- Business strategy and growth.
- Funding and investment preparation.
- Industry-specific knowledge sharing.
5. Investor Pitch Days & Demo Nights
These events provide participants with a platform to present their ideas to potential investors, stakeholders, and the public. It’s an opportunity to secure funding, gain exposure, and connect with industry leaders.
Features:
- Pitches to a panel of investors.
- Live demonstrations of products and prototypes.
- Networking sessions with key stakeholders.
6. Community Outreach and Peer Learning
We believe in the power of collaboration and shared learning. Regular peer learning sessions, community events, and knowledge-sharing platforms ensure that participants continuously grow and inspire one another.
Activities:
- Sharing sessions led by participants.
- Panel discussions with industry leaders.
- Group projects addressing local challenges.
