Young Lambeth residents with entrepreneurial ambitions will have the opportunity to make them into reality at the ‘Your Big Idea’ event this week.
Shortlisted entrants will pitch their ideas for a new business to guest panellists in categories such as food, digital and fashion on Wednesday February 24.
Successful applicants will be offered the support of a business mentor and the opportunity to receive £500 start-up funding.
Sofia Whyte, 2014 ‘Your Big Idea’ winner, said: “‘Your Big Idea’ has given me the confidence to establish The London Baby Journey.
“A unique business that offers families with children aged 0-5 years old in Lambeth the opportunity to get involved in the local community through organised social events and day-trips at affordable prices, while capturing childhood memories.
“The funding I won helped me get my business off the ground and provided the initial capital investment that enabled me to organise the first few events for parents and their children.
“My advice to this year’s ‘Your Big Idea’ participants is believe in yourself and your idea, and own it 100%.
“Always stay positive and take away the advice given by the speakers that you think will help you develop your business idea.”
Organised and sponsored by Capita in partnership with Lambeth Council, with support from The Prince’s Trust and Hatch Incubator, the event will take place on Wednesday February 24 and is open to 17-27 year-olds from Lambeth.
Any young people from Lambeth are welcome to attend the event at Brixton East 1871 on Barrington Road and learn how to start their own business.
Expert advice and career guidance will be provided by The Prince’s Trust, Hatch Incubator and Radley Yeldar on a range of subjects, such as presentation skills and marketing.
All entrants will have the opportunity to be considered for future free support programmes delivered by The Prince’s Trust and Hatch Incubator.
Lambeth’s cabinet member for jobs and growth, Councillor Jack Hopkins, said: “I am passionate about helping every young person in Lambeth realise their dreams, and supporting them to plan and develop great business ideas is one way we’re helping.
“This is an excellent opportunity for our ambitious and entrepreneurial young people to get advice about starting a business and win the chance to secure funding to develop their ideas.
“Any young people out there who want a better understanding of how business works should come along and get involved.”
Capita chief executive Andy Parker said: “For the last two years, the Big Idea event has demonstrated the spirit of innovation and ambition within young people in Lambeth.
“Great ideas, an entrepreneurial spirit and determination are core values and skills that help businesses to grow and achieve success.
“We are delighted to sponsor, for the third time, this fantastic opportunity for young people with great ideas to learn about how to build their own business and lay the foundations of a successful future.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the event can register their details at [email protected].
Image courtesy of Capita, with thanks
