Youth Entrepreneurship

Young people, ages 15–24, number more than 1.2 billion and represent one-quarter of the world’s population; yet many of them struggle to obtain decent work. Facing difficulties obtaining formal employment, and whether out of interest and/or necessity, many young people start businesses at or near subsistence. Yet most lack access to entrepreneurship skills development, individualized technical support and access to finance to sustain and expand them. Additionally, the businesses that young people start oftentimes fail to respond to market demands. Recognizing these challenges, CRS is committed to ensuring the design and implementation of impactful youth entrepreneurship programs that support young people to leverage market opportunities that enable them to support themselves and their families, have sustainable livelihoods and contribute to more stable communities.