An intensive 3-month program to support youth to develop social enterprises that tackle some of Cambodia’s most pressing environmental challenges
teams of youth
participants
Supporting youth-led business solutions to environment challenges
Youth Eco Labs was an innovation and leadership development program to help Cambodian youth turn their passion for environmental impact into viable social business models. We identified a cohort of budding entrepreneurs with an idea for an innovation that can solve an environmental challenge. Over the course of the three-month program, these young changemakers gained new skills in business, knowledge of environmental issues in Cambodia, exposure to real-world issues, and inspiring community.
At Impact Hub Phnom Penh, we’re all about practical action over theoretical business planning. Youth Eco Labs was no different. We facilitated immersive experiences so that participants could get out, really understand the problems, and rapidly test their ideas with real future users. This helped these new entrepreneurs build their confidence and start seeing real results in their social enterprises.
Our Approach
Discovery
Over the course of ten hands-on workshops, our participants built their skills in problem analysis, human-centered design, strategic planning, communication, mindful leadership, and team building. They also deepened their awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, including community impacts and the broader economic context.
Immersion
A field trip to the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctury and surrounding communities provided participants a first-hand understanding of how environmental issues affect local communities — and offered a transformational personal experience for many of the youth who had never spent time in the forest.
Connection
As part of our action-focused, motivational methodology, we facilitated peer-to-peer coaching circles during which participants listened to each others’ challenges and provided each other with advice and support. We also connected participants with external mentors who provided business and leadership guidance throughout the program.
Sharing
Beyond their own ventures, participants played a role in building awareness of environmental issues among a broader youth community. They designed their own social media campaign and produced mini videos, which altogether reached 60,000+ people. The program concluded with a Demo Day event where participants had a chance to showcase their innovations to the public.
Meet the inspiring changemakers
KHM-Bamboo
KHM-Bamboo
SrokSrae Home Garden
SrokSrae Home Garden
Petals
Petals
SmartBin
SmartBin
Solar Micro-Grid
Solar Micro-Grid
Cambo Bio Green
Cambo Bio Green
SONYA Café Team
SONYA Café Team
“I got to know many innovative thinkers who have a similar vision as me. I’m so happy because all the participants support each other. It’s the first program that made me feel it’s not like a competition, but instead it’s like a collaboration with support for each other. Even though we have different ideas, I feel so close with other members.”
Participant, Youth Eco Labs
Our Partners
