The search is on for Northern Ireland’s next business giant as Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch returns for its third year running.
The pitching competition gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to compete for up to £6,000 in investment for their business idea.
Launched by Go Succeed, Northern Ireland’s government-backed business support service, the competition is open to pre-trading and newly established businesses that have been operating for less than two years, across all sectors.
Local heats will take place across each of Northern Ireland’s 11 council areas, with hopefuls presenting their business idea in front of a panel of judges from across the local business and civic community.
The final will take place in November, returning to the literary home of one of Ireland’s most celebrated storytellers, Seamus Heaney. Coinciding with Global Entrepreneurship Week, the event will see the 11 local heat winners deliver their final pitches to a panel of expert judges.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Dawn Huggins said:
“Each year, we are continually impressed by the entrepreneurial talent and innovation within our communities here in the Borough, and we are incredibly proud to provide a platform for these individuals to showcase their businesses and gain the recognition they truly deserve.
“Whether you’re a first-time founder ready to take that initial step, a growing social enterprise, or have an established business with a new idea, we look forward to hearing from you.”
Last year’s winner was Sander Van Eck from Coleraine who amazed judges with his innovative waterproof socks company, Noord.
Reflecting on the experience, Sander said:
“Taking the leap and signing up for the Ultimate Pitch was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business.
“The entire experience was incredibly enjoyable from start to finish, and I learned so much along the way - from refining my pitching skills, which are essential for any business owner, to networking with fellow entrepreneurs and judges with established businesses.
“The exposure, financial support, and confidence Go Succeed has given me has played a huge role in helping me grow my business, and I would strongly encourage anyone with entrepreneurial ambitions to sign up for the Ultimate Pitch. As entrepreneurs, we need to be willing to take risks - and you never know where an opportunity like this might lead.”
Winners of local heats will receive a £1,000 investment with a further £5,000 available for the overall winner of the region-wide final. The overall winner who will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award will also receive a prize package including a photography session supplied by Brian Thompson Photography, a podcast recording session supplied by Attention X Studio NI, membership of Toastmasters, and a media training session supplied by LK Communications.
Additional prizes will include the Go Succeed Impact Award, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award, the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16-25 year-old entrepreneur, and the Go Succeed People’s Choice Award for the contestant with the most public votes.
Entrants have until 17th August to apply to the competition. Applicants will also have the opportunity to attend pitching masterclasses on how to make the ultimate pitch ahead of their local heats.
The Final will take place in Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy on Wednesday 18th November, during Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Go Succeed (www.go-succeed.com) is funded by the UK Government and delivered by Northern Ireland’s 11 councils. The service supports entrepreneurs, new starts and existing businesses with easy-to-access advice and support – including mentoring, masterclasses, peer networks, access to grant funding and business planning – at every stage of their growth journey.
To find out more about Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch, view the full terms and conditions, and apply, visit: www.go-succeed.com/TheUltimatePitch.
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