If you’ve got a great business idea but need a bit of help to get started, or are the very early stages of running a business, sign up for our next Entrepreneur Academy to develop your skills to set up your business. You’ll also get the chance to pitch your idea to a panel of business experts in a ‘Dragons' Den’ style competition for the chance to win £5,000 to help get your business off to a flying start.
Free sessions
Starting in March 2015, the free monthly sessions will cover a range of essential business topics, including:
- business planning
- finance
- marketing
- legal advice
- networking.
Run in partnership with hosts East Surrey College, seminars and workshops provide an opportunity to work and grow with other start-up businesses, hear from local professionals and develop your business proposal.
The scheme, now in its third year, also offers the opportunity to become part of a network of like-minded entrepreneurs with the same commitment and drive, where everyone can learn together.
Dragons’ Den
At the end of the course, entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch to a panel of business people for the chance to win £5,000 start-up funding. Business mentors will continue to be on hand for all participants to help and advise them through their set-up and initial trading.
“The whole experience has been very motivational and informative and the chance to pitch to real investors has been invaluable,” said Angelica Nightingale who won funding for her reusable puree pouch for babies and toddlers on the 2014 Entrepreneur Academy, which concluded last month. “The funding will be vital in helping me to launch my product to the market. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, this is a great place to start.”
Don’t miss out, apply today
There are only 12 places available, so register your interest to make sure you don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to turn your business idea into reality. The programme is open to anyone with a new business idea who lives in the borough of Reigate & Banstead and is aged over 18.
To apply or find our more visit the How we can support your business page on our website, email catherine.mcdemott@reigate-banstead.gov.uk or call Catherine on 01737 276008.
