A new drive to champion entrepreneurs and inspire youngsters to consider a career in business was launched today by Small Business Minister Nigel Griffiths. The move is part of a £3.25m package for mentoring projects. So far around 1,000 mentors in total have been recruited and over 10,000 businesses assisted. Mr Griffiths launched the new Shell LiveWIRE on-line mentoring scheme, which will provide prospective young entrepreneurs with round-the-clock expert advice from peers who are award-winning business owners.

The on-line scheme is aimed at young people aged 16-30, and covers five key areas of concern for those starting a business - business planning; sales and marketing; business managements; personnel and finance and funding.

The mentors, aged under 35, are participants of the LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur Awards programme, which champions dynamic young businesses. They come from a wide range of backgrounds, from worm farming to medical equipment manufacture. Enquirers will post their queries on the system and receive a response within 48 hours. The SBS is also providing an additional £345,000 of funding to help LiveWIRE run its enquiry hotline service and distribute 'start-up kits' to potential entrepreneurs. 33,000 kits were sent out last year.

Launching the scheme, Nigel Griffiths, Small Business Minister, said:"There's no better way for prospective new young entrepreneurs to get started than to be encouraged by dynamic business owners. For years, young people have been inspired by celebrities like pop stars and footballers. I want to see entrepreneurs become more admired and respected for their contribution to society. The LiveWIRE on-line mentoring scheme will play a key part in this drive."

The mentoring system can be accessed through the LiveWIRE website.