Entrepreneurship takes centre stage as BEF launches annual $20 Challenge

The Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation (BEF) launched its annual business challenge on Thursday, inviting students to build a business from a $20 investment.

The initiative, known as the $20 Challenge, is in its 14th year, with Executive Chairman Celeste Foster, affectionately called Madam $20 Challenge, reaffirming the Foundation’s mission to empower youth through hands-on entrepreneurship.

“Our mission remains clear,” Foster said. “We are building platforms so that all young people can transform their talents into thriving businesses.”

This year’s challenge introduces new features, including a financial literacy competition, “Unlock Your Voice” workshops, and a networking event in March connecting students with business professionals. Participants from 17 secondary schools, Barbados Community College, and the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute will receive training and mentorship before launching their enterprises, which run until December 31.

Market Day is set for November 22, when students will showcase their products and services. The programme ends with final judging and awards in April, recognising categories like Highest Sales, Best Marketing, and Entrepreneur of the Year.

Teachers praised the initiative for building confidence and creativity among students, while longtime ambassador Tony Curley shared that he continues to learn from the participants. “Watching their creativity and problem-solving is inspiring,” he said.

Foster expressed optimism about future partnerships with the Ministry of Education to embed entrepreneurship more deeply in the national curriculum. “We’re excited about the possibilities,” she said. “We want to ensure entrepreneurship has a permanent place in education.”

The BEF’s $20 Challenge continues to prove that with mentorship, innovation and determination, young Barbadians can turn even the smallest investment into a big idea.

(LE)