Young people in Southampton who dream of starting their own business are being offered the chance to win start-up funding and the support of an experienced mentor to develop and grow their idea.
As part of Global Entrepreneurs Week, 17 – 23 November, Capita is launching the Big Business Idea; a competition where four outstanding young entrepreneurs will be given a £1,000 grant, free office space for a year, and access to a business mentor to help them develop their new business or social enterprise.
There are four prizes, worth £1,000 each. Capita has funded three £1,000 prizes for the winning business enterprise pitches. Local business charity, Cathedral Innovations has also pledged a £1,000 prize for a winning social enterprise business pitch and are providing free office space for winners.
Entries are now open for people aged between 17 and 25 who think they might have the next big business idea, whether it’s focussed on food, digital, fashion and retail, or community and social enterprise. Successful entrants will present their business ideas to a guest panel of established experts at a Dragon’s Den style event on Monday, 26 January, when four overall winners will be chosen. Further details on how to apply can be found at http://www.capita.co.uk/news-and-opinion/news/2014/young-people-in-southampton-could-win-funding-to-launch-and-grow-their-own-business.aspx
Career guidance will be provided by business leaders on how design, advertising, digital, social media, finance and marketing play a vital role in growing a business.
The Big Business Idea is supported by Southampton City Council and Southampton Solent University with a range of local business start-up organisations who have donated their support to help guide young people and turn their business dreams into reality.
Councillor Simon Letts, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “This is an excellent initiative which is all about encouraging this city’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs.
“We know that there are lots of innovative and ambitious young people in Southampton, and the Big Business Idea is a great way of helping them to achieve their goals.
“I look forward to hearing all the business ideas on the day.”
Capita
20 November 2014