Encouraging youth entrepreneurship: The case of BIGG MARKA for stimulating young population towards entrepreneurship

Global youth unemployment is a significant challenge, especially in developing countries where economic factors, education, and employment policies play crucial roles. Limited experience and resources hinder access to opportunities, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies focusing on education and skill development. Türkiye's "NATIONAL YOUTH EMPLOYMENT STRATEGY" targets youth unemployment through measures like vocational training and entrepreneurship support, prioritizing regional needs as a key focus for development agencies in 2022-2023. Technoparks are crucial for young entrepreneurs to receive government support. TÜBİTAK's BIGG (Individual Young Entrepreneur / Bireysel Genç Girişimci) program has been providing support to young entrepreneurs since 2015. Bilkent CYBERPARK's "BIGG MARKA" program, in line with these efforts, offers comprehensive support, including training and mentoring, for startups from conception to market entry. In conclusion, specialized policies and robust support mechanisms are vital for addressing youth unemployment, as exemplified by Türkiye's initiatives like the BIGG MARKA program.