Best Arctic Youth Enterprise - presented by the Barents Secretariat

5. Best Arctic Youth Enterprise - presented by the Barents Secretariat

The jury will select the Best Arctic Youth Enterprise 2026. Innovation and impact demonstrate that the enterprise contributes to societal benefit. Market and network evaluate the company’s understanding of the market. Through good financial management, the enterprise shows control of budget and accounting. Team and leadership highlight collaboration within the company. Learning outcomes show the students’ development and learning throughout the process.

INNOVATION AND IMPACT (20%)

  • What problem is the youth enterprise solving?

  • In what way is the solution innovative?

  • How has the solution been put into practical use, either in the market or as a tested prototype/pilot?

  • What is the solution’s impact on society and people’s lives, considering social, environmental, and economic aspects?

MARKET AND NETWORK (20%)

  • What work has the youth enterprise done to identify the market and map its market potential?

  • How does the youth enterprise understand the competitive situation (i.e., insight into competitors and how their own solution stands out)?

  • How have networks and mentors contributed to the operation and development of the youth enterprise?

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (20%)

  • Has the youth enterprise developed a realistic plan for generating revenue?

  • How has the enterprise used the budget in planning?

  • How has accounting been used as a management tool throughout the process?

TEAM AND LEADERSHIP (20%)

  • Does the team have the right composition and experience needed to develop the youth enterprise?

  • What activities and measures have been taken to manage teamwork and handle any challenges?

  • How have the CEO and team worked together to drive the work forward?

LEARNING OUTCOMES (20%)

  • What have you learned from starting and running your own business?

  • What challenges did you encounter, and how did you solve them?

  • How has your experience with a Youth Enterprise prepared you for the future?

The jury for Best Arctic Youth Enterprise will engage with the company through the following touchpoints:

  1. Written Materials:
    The youth enterprise must submit an interim report in advance. The interim report must not exceed 10 A4 pages (including front and back covers). It should include:

  • Front page with the youth enterprise’s name, school name, responsible teacher, school year, mentor name, and mentor’s workplace.

  • First page with a brief summary.

  • Remaining pages should address the evaluation criteria. Students should describe what they have actually done during the Youth Enterprise year and any plans for the future.

  • Income statement and balance sheet must be included within the 10 pages.

  1. Interview at Havnestua, approx. 10 minutes:
    This takes place immediately after the stage presentation.

  2. Stage Pitch:
    The youth enterprise will give a live stage presentation (not a video) with an audience. Maximum length is 2 minutes, followed by a 10-minute interview. PowerPoint, Prezi, etc., may be used.

Barents Liggende Farge