Background of the study
Youth entrepreneurship programs have emerged as critical interventions to address high unemployment rates and stimulate economic growth among young populations. In Ondo West Local Government Area, Ondo State, various initiatives have been implemented to equip young individuals with the necessary skills, mentorship, and financial support to launch and sustain their own businesses (Adebowale, 2023). These programs often include vocational training, business incubation, and access to micro-finance, all aimed at fostering an entrepreneurial culture among the youth. With a significant proportion of the population being young, the success of these programs is crucial for the overall economic development of the region (Fagbohun, 2024). Moreover, youth entrepreneurship is seen as a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and community transformation. However, despite the investments in these programs, challenges such as limited access to capital, inadequate mentoring, and gaps between training and market demands persist. This study evaluates the design, implementation, and outcomes of youth entrepreneurship programs in Ondo West, seeking to identify best practices and propose strategies to enhance their economic impact. By linking entrepreneurial initiatives to local development goals, the research aims to contribute to sustainable economic empowerment among the youth.
Statement of the problem
Despite significant investments in youth entrepreneurship programs in Ondo West, many young entrepreneurs face persistent challenges that limit the economic impact of these initiatives. Inadequate access to funding, limited mentorship opportunities, and a disconnect between training curricula and market needs have hindered the scalability and sustainability of youth-led ventures (Adebowale, 2023). Consequently, the expected contribution of these programs to local economic growth remains below potential (Fagbohun, 2024). This gap between program objectives and outcomes raises concerns about the long-term viability of youth entrepreneurship initiatives in the region. Therefore, there is a pressing need to critically evaluate these programs, identify obstacles, and develop targeted strategies to bridge the gap between training and practical business success.
Objectives of the study (3):
To assess the effectiveness of youth entrepreneurship programs in Ondo West.
To identify challenges faced by young entrepreneurs.
To propose recommendations to enhance the economic impact of these initiatives.
Research questions (3):
What is the economic impact of youth entrepreneurship programs in Ondo West?
What challenges do young entrepreneurs encounter?
How can these programs be improved for greater sustainability?
Research Hypotheses (3):
Youth entrepreneurship programs significantly boost local economic development.
Insufficient support negatively affects the success of youth-led ventures.
Enhanced mentorship and funding improve program outcomes.
Significance of the study
This study provides critical insights into the role of youth entrepreneurship programs in fostering economic growth in Ondo West. The findings will guide policymakers, educators, and investors in refining support mechanisms to empower young entrepreneurs and stimulate local development. By addressing existing challenges, the research aims to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of these initiatives (Adebowale, 2023; Fagbohun, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to evaluating youth entrepreneurship programs and their economic impact within Ondo West Local Government Area, focusing on program design, implementation, and outcomes.
Definitions of terms (3):
Youth Entrepreneurship: The process by which young individuals initiate and manage business ventures.
Economic Impact: The effect of an initiative on community income and development.
Mentorship: Guidance provided by experienced individuals to support entrepreneurial growth.
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