The Earniversity Fast Track Challenge returns this October for young people living in Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester, Epping Forest, Maldon, Tendring, and Uttlesford.
The programme is open to 13 to 25-year-olds and aims to ignite entrepreneurial ambition through hands-on, digital-first learning.
This includes entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and employability.
A spokesman for the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB), which is running the scheme in partnership with Earniversity, said: “The programme equips students with confidence, practical skills, and a clearer vision for self-employment and business ownership.”
The challenge includes five weeks of online skills training, followed by a week of coaching for graduates.
Sessions will take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 7pm, focusing on public speaking, reflection, and awards preparation.
In the March to May 2025 cohort, 39 students from five North Essex schools and colleges earned a combined £13,000 through freelancing, reselling, and content creation.
Robbie Roots from St John Payne School was named Top Achiever, while Fiyin Folarin from The Beaulieu Park School was recognised as Community Leader.
Emmanuel Ranieri from The Sixth Form College won Best Final Project for growing his LinkedIn following by 500 in just 10 days.
Mika Davies, also from The Beaulieu Park School, was the highest earner, making £1,407 through reselling.
Past participants have praised the scheme for its real-world impact.
Lila Davies, 18, said: “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.”
Edward Warnsby, 17, said: “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.”
Applications are now open, but places are limited.
Organisers are encouraging young people to apply early for the chance to turn their ideas into income and develop skills for a future in business.
