Steve Jang
IN the CNMI, graduation advice often sounds like this: “Go get a government job — it’s safe.”
And sure, stability is nice. But we’ve got more graduates than government desks — and let’s be honest, some of those desks don’t even have working AC.
It’s time to shift gears.
Let’s raise young entrepreneurs — people who build jobs, not just apply for them.
Every youth-run business creates momentum. One food cart. One online shop. One tour guide. It’s not just income — it’s confidence, creativity, and self-reliance. But they need our help to get started.
We don’t have to invent the model. The rest of the world is already doing it.
Youth entrepreneurship is a global movement
– In Palau, young farmers are launching eco-businesses with help from local grant programs.
– In Guam, youth pop-ups and microloans are creating jobs in food, fashion, and digital media.
– Singapore has national funding for student-run startups — and startup bootcamps inside their high schools.
– Canada’s Futurpreneur offers young adults up to $60,000 and mentorship to launch businesses.
– In the U.K., The Prince’s Trust has helped more than 90,000 young people start businesses — with everything from funding to coaching.
– Even Rota is ahead of us in some ways, with youth-led farming and local product sales on the rise.
It’s time for CNMI to step up
We need an island-wide push. Here’s how we start:
– Teach business in schools. Basics like budgeting, marketing, and how not to get scammed by your first supplier.
– Create a real Youth Business Incubator. A space with Wi-Fi, mentors, and workshops — not just another task force that files a report no one reads.
– Offer micro-grants and low-interest loans. $3,000–$10,000 for first-time youth-led businesses. Let’s give them tools, not just pep talks.
– Waive startup fees. Free permits and licenses for locals under 30 launching their first venture.
– Fast-track approvals. Zoning and business license decisions in 15 days or less. Not island time — startup time.
– Celebrate them. Monthly “Local Start-Up Nights” and a “Young Entrepreneurs of Saipan” campaign that shows off our local talent.
Thanks to our partners
Let’s also recognize those already working hard to support our local dreamers:
Northern Marianas College, the Small Business Development Center, and the Small Business Administration have been key champions in growing the next generation of local business leaders. Their support is vital — and needs to be scaled up with even stronger government partnership.
A word to CNMI leaders
To the Department of Commerce, NMC, and CEDA:
This isn’t just a good idea — it’s a necessity.
Let’s stop recycling slogans and start investing in real opportunity. Let’s create systems where entrepreneurship is as respected and accessible as a government job. Our kids don’t just need encouragement — they need infrastructure, mentorship, and startup capital.
We don’t need more desk jobs.
We need more dream jobs — built by our kids, right here at home. Let’s not give up!
