Late last year, BT’s Tradespace portal launched new functionality that aimed to help small businesses manage their online reputation. Now, Virgin Media and Enterprise UK have joined forces to create Virgin Media Pioneers, an innovative new online community that connects young entrepreneurs with business professionals.

Though the concept is not particularly new (Entrepreneur Connect, Meet the Boss and Partner Up all provide a similar service), the addition of Virgin’s trusted brand name on the site’s header will add credibility – pulling in high profile business and thought leaders. As one of the objectives for the site is to close the gap between the number of young people with a great idea and those who are able to make it happen, this will be a key aspect of its success.

Enterprise UK are also well-versed in leveraging the reputation of a partner company to maximum advantage. Founded in 2004 by the British Chamber of Commerce, the Confederation of British Industry, the Institute of Directors and the Federation of Small Businesses, it started its work with young people under a campaign called Make Your Mark that encouraged enterprising activity amongst 14 – 30 year olds. Master networker Oli Barrett joined forces with the organisation three years ago to create Make Your Make with a Tenner, which lends tens of thousands of school pupils £10, and challenges them to see what they can achieve in one month.

Virgin Media Pioneers is made up from three main elements; an online community in which to share skills, ideas and connect with mentors, a series of skill development sessions and networking events to help support activity happening online, and then an annual award ceremony.

NixonMcInnes, the social media specialist, worked on the entire project – from website design and build to brand identity, usability research and assessment. Will McInnes, managing director, said: “Young people are amongst those hardest hit during the recession. Many have fantastic business ideas but need help making them a reality. If the UK is going to generate the next Richard Branson, then we need to see more initiatives like Virgin Media Pioneers that provide young people with access to the contacts, advice and support they need to unlock their entrepreneurial talent. ”

Image via The Telegraph.