06 Jul JumpSTART JS24C1 Updates
JS24C1 Programme Overview and Structure
We are proud of our graduates and excited to witness the impact they will have in the entrepreneurial landscape.
The latest JumpSTART Incubator Programme concluded with the graduation of 21 participants on July 22nd, 2024. Held online via Zoom, the program ensured broad accessibility across the Twin Isle Republic. Participants engaged in twice-weekly sessions, benefiting from tailored mentorship and integrated Advisory Sessions. The curriculum emphasized customer empathy, self-discovery, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, all incorporated into the Business Model Canvas. Post-training sessions on July 29th and 30th offered additional strategic support, setting the stage for these entrepreneurs to make a significant impact.
The JumpSTART Phases
JumpSTART Incubator Programme is designed to equip young entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to transform their business ideas into reality.
Recruitment Phase
Above is a photo showing participants sharing a personal item on their first session.
In this cohort, we admitted 29 participants, with 21 successfully graduating, a 72% retention rate that underscores the participants’ commitment and determination. Below is a graphic showcasing the participants of the JumpSTART programme, celebrating their achievement and the journey they have undertaken.
Above is an image showing the baseline data on participants.
Geographical Reach
Our programme format has allowed us to reach participants from various locations across Trinidad and Tobago, representing the diverse and dynamic nature of our entrepreneurial community. See the map below for a visual representation of our geographic spread.
Training Phase
The JumpSTART training phase is a structured journey of self-discovery and business development. Participants begin by creating their personal stock profile and uncovering their resources and skills. We guide them through generating ideas using design thinking methodologies to ensure innovative and customer-centric solutions. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) is then utilized to help participants lay a strong foundation for their business ideas by integrating insights and planning for viability. To foster a supportive environment and enhance learning, participants are matched with mentors and grouped with peers for mentorship support.
Below are the Satisfaction Ratings by Participants out of 5
Likelihood to Recommend the Programme
4.4
Length of Training Time
4.2
Communication ahead of the training
4.4
Topics and Content covered
4.3
Mentorship provided
3.7
Training Delivery
4.2
In-Person Meetup
To complement the online training, we hold in-person meetups where participants can connect with their mentors and peers. These sessions provide an invaluable opportunity for participants to present their ideas, receive feedback, and refine their business models. Below are some pictures from this cohort’s meetup.
Ecosystem Connect
Ecosystem Connect Session
Our Ecosystem Connect Session was a pivotal moment, enabling participants to connect with key players in our local entrepreneurial ecosystem. This session provided invaluable insights and fostered connections that will support and propel them forward in their business journeys.
In this session, participants engaged with:
- UTC’s Urpreneur Plus and ScaleUp
- National Enterprises Limited
- CARIRI Support Services
- NEDCO Business Accelerator Programme
- Dale & Judy Leadership Coaching
Graduation Ceremony
As a culmination of the JumpSTART program, participants had the opportunity to pitch their various business ideas to a panel of experts, receiving feedback and guidance on possible next steps. This step helped refine their business concepts and set the stage for future success.
After the pitches, our graduates were celebrated in a special ceremony. Below, you’ll find a video capturing moments from the graduation. Congratulations to all our graduates on this significant achievement!
Post Advisory Sessions
Following the completion of the JumpSTART program, participants have the opportunity to engage in Post Advisory Sessions. These sessions offer a platform for graduates to reconnect with their mentors, reflect on their progress, and seek further guidance on the challenges they face in implementing their business ideas.
Above is an image showing participants and mentors during one Post Advisory Session.
Participant Testimonials
Hear firsthand how the program has impacted their lives and businesses, and gain insights into the transformative power of mentorship and innovation. These testimonials highlight the growth and development our participants have achieved, showcasing the real-world benefits of their JumpSTART experience.
Here are more testimonials from our participants!
“Participating in the JumpSTART program by YBTT has been a transformative experience for me. The content was excellent, but what stood out the most was how the program made the early steps of entrepreneurship less intimidating. From self-discovery, understanding my strengths, and hearing inspiring stories from fellow participants, I no longer feel terrified about starting my own business.”
~ Jordan Smith
“I thoroughly enjoyed my advisory sessions. Alex is one of the best mentors I’ve encountered to date. He’s a good listener and he provided great guidance and insight to me. I wish our meeting was longer, but I do have a few action items I’m working on which stemmed from our discussion. Super excited for our next meeting.”
~ Alicia Mitchell
“After being a bit reluctant if this was the right step for me, I am beyond grateful that I took the opportunity. The knowledge obtained surpassed any other resource that I have accessed. Thank you to YBTT.”
~ Marielle Gordon
“It was more than I expected. My confidence as an entrepreneur in my enterprise grew. The tuition and support was quite profound, that I felt that no challenge was too big for me to overcome. The mandates as far as out of class assignments only served as a motivation to soar to higher heights and the experiences shared served as success indicators . I am truly grateful and humbled to have joined the YBTT family.”
~ Jenester Mcknight
Thank you for those that made it happen!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their unwavering support and commitment to Taking Entrepreneurship to the Next Level!
