The challenge has been set for Newport and south east Wales' next top entrepreneurs to step forward to be fast-tracked into business as part of the second Big Ideas Wales Challenge – one of the largest campaigns of its kind backed by the Welsh Government.

Auditions are to be held in South Wales for young people aged between 16 and 24 years who have started their business this year or are committed to starting in 2015 to have the chance to work with top entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses.

Applications have opened for up to 50 places on the challenge (www.BigIdeasWales.com) which will include an intense three-day business Bootcamp weekend where they’ll be inspired and challenged by world-class entrepreneurs.

Twenty-eight young people have already started or are in the process of launching their own business just over half-way through the first Challenge which began with the inaugural Bootcamp in January this year.

James Taylor, group chief executive of Cardiff-based SuperStars and the Big Ideas Wales programme ambassador, said: “This is a great opportunity for young people and one I’m sure entrepreneurs such as myself wished they could have had when starting a business. The first Challenge is already providing results and I’d urge any young person who has launched or about to launch a business with growth potential to apply,.

“The first Challenge has already produced 28 young entrepreneurs either in business or about to embark on their journey. Now we’re offering the chance for more to receive intense coaching and guidance to be fast-tracked into business.”

Applications for the Big Ideas Wales Challenge are available at www.BigIdeasWales.com and must be submitted by 31st October 2014. Auditions will be held throughout Wales in December.