Options Youth is a federally funded program that is facilitated by the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. This program is intended to assist youth in developing the skills and gaining the experience they need to successfully transition into the labour market.
Options Youth provides an opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and networks through education, training and meaningful work experiences. This program provides guidance, individualized training and mentorship to participants.
*Applications due January 16, 2026
This cohort is exclusively for Youth who identify as Black and are living in Nova Scotia.
An eligible participant is an individual who is:
Priority will be given to applicants who: live with a disability, identify as part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, reside in rural or remote regions, or identify as part of another equity deserving group.
The program is free. We pay you, so you can attend the training sessions.
Fill out the application form by January 16, 2026 or email us at optionsyouth@smu.ca if you have any questions!
Yes. We will review applications and interview potential participants for acceptance into the program.
You can come at any stage, whether you have an idea or are already operating your business!
During the speaker series you can work a full or part time job, being mindful of your availability around event times, which will be scheduled on weekday evenings. If you are accepted into the business incubator, the expectation is that you will devote your working hours to your business, while receiving financial support to do so.
An eligible participant is an individual who is:
Priority will be given to applicants who: live with a disability, identify as part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, reside in rural or remote regions, or identify as part of another equity deserving group.
The program is free. We pay you, so you can attend the training sessions.
Fill out the application form or email us at optionsyouth@smu.ca if you have any questions!
Yes. We will review applications and interview potential participants for acceptance into the program.
You can come at any stage, whether you have an idea or are already operating your business!
During the speaker series you can work a full or part time job, being mindful of your availability around event times, which will be scheduled on weekday evenings. If you are accepted into the business incubator, the expectation is that you will devote your working hours to your business, while receiving financial support to do so.
*Applications due January 16, 2026
