Vancouver Investor Urges Inclusion of Entrepreneurship in High School Curriculum Across BC to Empower the Next Generation
Canadian entrepreneur and investor Aaron Keay is advocating for the integration of entrepreneurship in the high school curriculum in British Columbia and Canada. Keay, the founder of Klutch Financial and Kommunity Fitness, emphasizes the importance of instilling business thinking early on, not only for students but also for the economic future of the province.
According to Small Business BC, British Columbia houses over 523,000 small businesses, which make up 98% of all businesses in the province. Despite this, many high school graduates lack the basic knowledge needed to start or manage a business. A survey by Junior Achievement Canada in 2022 revealed that 76% of youth feel unprepared for the workforce and wish they had learned more about personal finance, business, and entrepreneurship in school.
Keay, who grew up in North Delta, BC, is pushing for changes in the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and community initiatives to introduce entrepreneurship to students as early as Grade 9. He believes that everyone in the community, including local business owners, parents, and students, can contribute to this effort without waiting for government intervention.
Keay’s advocacy includes local mentorship programs, community-driven business events, inviting entrepreneurs to schools, and encouraging entrepreneurial activities at home. He stresses that entrepreneurship education doesn’t require textbooks but rather challenges, support, and the belief that students’ ideas are valuable.
Partnering with educational nonprofits and school districts, Keay aims to establish structured entrepreneurship programs in BC high schools and provide resources for teachers and families to use independently. His goal is not to create the next Jeff Bezos but to empower youth to realize their potential and drive positive change in the business landscape of Canada.
Aaron Keay, based in Vancouver, is a passionate investor, entrepreneur, and former professional soccer player. He is dedicated to empowering youth, supporting small businesses, and investing in the future of British Columbia.