On Monday 5th December, Young Start-up Talent (YST) held a speed-networking event at the University of Chichester with young entrepreneurs from the surrounding area where they were given the opportunity to present to a series of business professionals. The candidates were all aiming to impress the judges with their entrepreneurial flair as all are competing for a prize fund of business products and services giving them all the tools they need to kick-start their businesses.
The entrepreneurial initiative ‘Young Start-up Talent’ was launched for the first time in the Chichester area in February of this year. Since launching the initiative six years ago in the Gatwick Diamond region, YST now works across five regions across the South of England alongside 140 businesses who all support the next generation of entrepreneurs. Chichester is no exception, with sponsors including; Moore Stephens, Chichester District Council, Chichester Chamber of Commerce, Chichester Observer, NatWest, and even the Bishop himself through Chichester Cathedral.
Matt Turner, CEO of The Creative Group, commented; “I am extremely excited to see how the candidates progress and develop their ideas for the next phase of the initiative”
Five entrepreneurs pitched their business ideas on a 1-2-1 basis to each of the eight judges. Over the course of ten minutes, they had to convince the professionals of the feasibility of their business, whilst also allowing their entrepreneurial flair and creativity to shine through.
The five entrepreneurs included:
Hannah Weir, with her business ‘Telephonium’ a telemarketing company;
Thomas Orchard - with ‘Tom’s Computers’ and ‘Tech Wardrobe’;
Matt Sim, presenting his business idea involving Ski Clothing;
Leanne Robertson, pitching her sports massage and nutrition business; and
Charles Taylor, who handcrafts his own bespoke pens.
Rob Nunn, Director of Young Start-up Talent and MD of Creative Pod commented; “The young entrepreneurs presented their businesses eloquently and clearly. They will all have great success in the future, regardless of what happens in this competition.”
The process will continue throughout December, with the entrepreneurs pitching their businesses in a more formal setting, to the panel of eight judges at the Bishop’s Palace. The winner of the prize fund of business products and services will be announced at a showcase final on Thursday 12th January 2017 at the Planetarium, Chichester.
To find out more about Young Start-up Talent please visit: www.youngstartuptalent.co.uk. Alternatively, if you would like to attend the showcase please RSVP to: admin@youngstartuptalent.co.uk