Are you a budding entrepreneur with dreams of starting your own business?
The SBF (Spelthorne Business Forum) is excited to announce its takeover of the Spelthorne Business Plan Competition 2025!
Now in its 11th year, this competition has successfully launched numerous small businesses, many of which have continued to thrive. Previously led by Kwasi Kwarteng MP for a decade, this inspiring event has been entrusted to the dedicated team at SBF following his retirement from politics last year. If you have a great business idea but need some help to get things off the ground, this is an opportunity to give your idea the boost it needs, with a prize of £4,000 as well as a package of mentoring and support.
SBF Chair, Tracey Carter, said: “We are honoured to take the reins of this incredible initiative and build on its legacy. The competition embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of Spelthorne, and we look forward to working with passionate local businesses to help their ideas flourish. This is an exciting opportunity to nurture innovation and support our vibrant business community.”
Cllr Howard Williams, Chair of Business, Infrastructure and Growth Committee, said: “The Spelthorne Business Plan Competition has consistently showcased the remarkable talent and entrepreneurial spirit within our community. As we embark on the 11th year, I am confident that this tradition of excellence will continue, fostering innovation and supporting the growth of local businesses. I encourage all aspiring entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity to bring their business ideas to life.”
The competition officially opens for submissions on Monday 17 February 2025, with applications closing on Monday 14 April 2025. Aspiring entrepreneurs will have the chance to develop their business ideas under expert guidance before pitching them at the highly anticipated Dragons’ Den-style Final on Thursday 26 June 2025, hosted by bp in Sunbury. The top prize is a £4,000 cash award, a critical boost to help the winner bring their vision to life.
The competition is open to Spelthorne residents aged 16 and over, whether as individuals or teams (up to four members) and relies heavily on support from our local business community. We invite all local businesses to participate this year and consider becoming sponsors, please contact the team for further information on the opportunities available.
Submitting your entry is simple! Request a form from members@sbf.biz or search for “Spelthorne Business Plan Competition” on Facebook.
Notes to editor
The Spelthorne Business Forum is an invaluable partnership between the business community and Spelthorne Council as a means of promoting economic growth within Spelthorne, in what are fast changing economic times. The forum is made up of like-minded individuals and business leaders who are working towards a greater goal, by engaging with our business community and residents to demonstrate that we are passionate about this borough and understand the relationship between the residents and the businesses.
The SBF is free to join, if you would like to find out more or would like to join visit sbf.biz or email members@sbf.biz for further information.
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