For a second year, entrepreneurs in Somerset looking to set up a business or who have been trading for less than a year are being invited to step up to the microphone to give their business a boost.
Somerset SOUP is a great opportunity for all start ups to pitch their ideas to a business audience, gain valuable feedback and win a prize consisting of cash, memberships and business support.
Pitching businesses will compete against each other whilst gaining essential business insight, investment and brand awareness for their company.
Ges Green, Somerset Enterprise Centres Manager, said: “We are looking for entrepreneurs to come forward, pitch their business idea and win a fantastic package. The winning business will take away a prize worth a minimum of £1,000 including cash, business support, and promotion. This is a crowd funding event which asks every member of the audience to vote, with the winning business taking the ticket proceeds from the event. It also gives the winner increased business exposure with an expected audience of around 60 business professionals.
“SOUP events are a fantastic opportunity to network whilst supporting new enterprise. We are excited to be working in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce as well as other sponsors.
“The concept is great and it gives new businesses the opportunity to raise funds and gain visibility to launch their business idea. We are really pleased to bring Somerset SOUP to Mendip this year, after the success in Taunton Deane in 2017.”
As well as a cash injection, the winning business will receive a package of business support and advice, provided through one to one business support and mentoring, and access to a range of workshops and events. The winner will be able to access incubation space in any of the Somerset Enterprise Centres (where available), free of charge for 12 months and a year’s free membership of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, to help them develop their business and raise their profile. Other sponsors are also being lined up, so keep an eye out for updates on social media.
Councillor David Hall, Cabinet member for Resources and Economic Development, said: “Starting a business can be a real challenge and peer support and advice is often the best support and advice you can get. “Last year’s event was a real success so I’m delighted to see it happening again, and this time with space in one of our Enterprise Centres as an incentive. “A vibrant economy is critical to the long-term future of the county and our network of centres is providing practical support to help small business off the ground, creating jobs and generating prosperity.”
Last year’s Somerset SOUP winner, Elaine Owen, who pitched Timepix Ltd, said: “I would definitely recommend Somerset SOUP. The process was straight forward, enjoyable and a really good opportunity.
“The prize money allowed me to allocate funds for developing the business in the lead up to the business launch. I’ve made good use of the accounting software from Albert Goodman and I am looking forward to taking advantage of the Chamber of Commerce Membership. It is also reassuring that business advice and support is available from TDA throughout my business journey.”
The event takes place on 27 September, 5-6:30pm at The Red Brick Building, Glastonbury.
If you’re interested in pitching your business idea at SOUP, visit www.somerset-enterprise-centres.co.uk/soup where you can apply.
Applications to pitch your business idea close on Monday 4th June. For more information email Somerset Enterprise Centres at somerset@tda.uk.net or call 01278 550250.
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