Design and Innovate

Young people from The Factory and other Youth Zones recently took part in the Youth Innovate challenge to have their products turned into a reality and stocked in outlets throughout the UK. Teams from each Youth Zone were given a £100 start-up grant to develop a new product concept and the top three teams were selected to progress to pitching their idea at the Retail Week Live conference in London.

Juniors from The Factory created a dental product to encourage children to brush their teeth by making it easy and fun. The toothbrush come toothpaste hybrid allows the user to load the brush with paste by simply squeezing the handle. The invention also plays music and flashes lights which makes it interesting for children to use. Jayden, Lois and Christopher from our Junior group presented the idea and although they didn’t get through to the next stage they received great feedback about their product and their pitch.

Speaking to OnSide’s CEO about the Youth Innovate programme, she said,

“Youth Innovate demonstrates what can be achieved when we nurture young people and give them opportunities to develop their natural talents.

I’m proud of every single one of the entrants we’ve had in the competition this year, and especially pleased to be sending three teams to Retail Week Live in London.”