At ETC, we believe in the power of opportunity. Through the ETC Community Support Fund, we’re proud to support organisations that are making a real difference in the lives of people across our communities.
One of our latest partnerships is with Youth Express, a dynamic not-for-profit based in Maitland, NSW, dedicated to helping young people thrive.
We’re excited to share that ETC has provided $5,000 in funding to Youth Express to help launch a 10-week Youth Entrepreneurial Program – an initiative designed to inspire and empower at-risk and disengaged youth across the Hunter region.
Facilitated by ETC’s Self-Employment Assistance team in Maitland, the program supported nine students from Rutherford Technology High School to explore the world of entrepreneurship. From launching an e-commerce gaming accessories store to dreaming up a Sicilian restaurant, these young participants brought bold ideas to life.
Throughout the program, students engaged in practical activities like business research and SWOT analysis, helping them develop real-world problem-solving skills and entrepreneurial thinking. More than just business skills, the program fostered confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose—qualities that will serve these young people well into the future.
Youth Express was selected for the grant in recognition of their ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable young people – an effort that closely aligns with ETC’s vision of making a positive impact on people’s lives.
Speaking about the impact of the initiative, ETC CEO Damon Munt said that supporting Youth Express was a natural fit for ETC’s mission.
“We’re proud to back Youth Express in their mission to empower young people across the Hunter Region. Their work aligns seamlessly with ETC’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and driving positive change in our communities.”
Rod McKelvey, Chair of ETC’s Board, also shared his thoughts on the importance of community investment.
“The ETC Community Support Fund is designed to help organisations reduce disadvantage, generate opportunity, increase support services and build capacity in the communities in which we operate. Youth Express’s program is a fantastic example of how targeted support can create lasting impact for young people.
According to the Maitland Social Profile 2021–2025, approximately 20% of residents are under the age of 18, yet the region faces significant challenges:
Programs like Youth Express’ Youth Entrepreneurial Program play a vital role in addressing these issues by equipping young people with practical skills and a renewed sense of direction.
At ETC, our commitment to community is more than a motto — it’s the heart of everything we do.
Since launching the ETC Community Support Fund in 2012, we’ve proudly contributed over $3 million to grassroots organisations making a real difference – including $2 million in the last three years alone. These funds support initiatives that tackle the greatest needs in our communities – particularly those related to employment, skills development, and overcoming barriers to work.
Our support for Youth Express is a powerful reflection of this commitment. By backing programs that uplift at-risk youth, we’re not just addressing immediate challenges — we’re investing in long-term change. Together with our community partners, we’re helping to create inclusive opportunities, build resilience, and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
Call our friendly team on 1800 007 400 or fill out the Enquire Now form on this page.
Fill out this form and one of our team members will contact you.
When you’re looking for support, Ask Izzy can help you to find the services you need, now and nearby. It is free and anonymous, and you can search over 360,000 services to find housing, meals, money help, healthcare, counselling, legal advice, addiction treatment and a whole lot more.
Visit Ask Izzy - https://askizzy.org.au/
If you’re on the Telstra mobile network, you can access Ask Izzy even if you don’t have credit.
Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about the latest tips, trends and business insights from ETC.
