The Marshall Pitfield Youth Loan Fund
The Marshall Pitfield Youth Loan Fund was developed in loving memory of David Marshall Pitfield, who died suddenly in 2021 at the age of 31. Marshall struggled with depression all of his adult life, but he was also a talented and enthusiastic chef who was happiest when sharing love through food. His passion and creativity inspired Marshall’s family to establish this loan fund in his memory so that other young and passionate entrepreneurs with mental health and addiction challenges can access personal and professional support to pursue their talents and goals.
Why youth entrepreneurs?
Self-employment can be especially powerful for individuals who experience mental health and addiction challenges. Life can be hard, and for young people trying to find their way, entrepreneurship is a chance to take control of their employment and create opportunities for themselves according to their own interests, experiences, and needs.
Nearly 3 in 4 Gen Z Canadians say they’re attracted to the idea of starting a business, however, lack of experience, mentorship, and financial resources remain some of the biggest barriers.
In partnership with Rise, the Marshall Pitfield Youth Loan Fund is helping more young people build futures for themselves.
Fifty-six per cent (56%) of Rise clients are ages 16 to 35. Not only do they represent the engine of our workforce, but they are one of the demographics whose mental health has been most negatively affected by the social and economic upheaval of recent years. They also represent the Canadians best poised to innovate and adapt to our fast-evolving digital, hybrid and gig economy.
The Marshall Pitfield Youth Loan Fund is injecting capital into the Rise Small Business Lending Program to ensure Rise can support even more young people to pursue economic independence and personal well-being through entrepreneurship. That means that in addition to flexible financing, recipients of a Marshall Pitfield loan can also access the powerful mentorship and custom supports at the core of Rise’s flagship program.
Visit our donation page to make a gift to the Marshall Pitfield Youth Loan Fund.
