A competition has been launched that aims to give a helping hand to up-and-coming entrepreneurs in Derbyshire.
Marketing Derby, which is the city and county’s inward investment agency, has launched its annual search to find the region’s “Rising Star”.
The winner of the competition will receive a free year of Marketing Derby bondholder membership, along with local publicity and invitations to must-attend events.
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The initiative first began in 2016, when the accolade was awarded to University of Derby graduate Edward Hollands, who had founded his own business called DrivenMedia.
The business, which sells advertising space on the side of lorries, has since gone on to enjoy success, boosted by the support of investor Jenny Campbell from TV’s Dragon’s Den.
Ed said: “Being the first Rising Star was a real game-changer for me. The chance to network with the business leaders of Derby and knowing I had their full support was a fantastic opportunity and really set me off on the right foot.”
Due to the strength of entries, the most recent competition saw two local entrepreneurs awarded the Rising Star title - Sonia Sohal, who owns The Fit, and Abbi Burns who runs Darley Dance Productions.
Abbi said: “Winning the Rising Star award has been truly transformational both for my business and for myself as a business owner.
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“When you have your head down and work constantly on your business you sometimes get lost trying to work out how to make your business work. Winning the Rising Star award made me lift my head from my laptop and get out there.
“It’s been amazing to meet so many inspirational business people and to learn from them about what it really takes to move a company forward.
“That in turn has not only helped me build my confidence but also allowed me to gain clarity around my own business and see where I fit into an exciting city like Derby.”
Sonia said: “A lot of my clients are bondholders and I can see the positive impact this has on their businesses. I feel very lucky to now be a part of that.
“Being the Rising Star alongside Abbi has also given me a confidence boost, enabling me to talk more about the world of fashion and looking your best.”
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Applicants must be in their first year of business and be willing to attend at least 10 bondholder events during their year as Rising Star.
To apply to be the Marketing Derby Rising Star for 2020, e-mail: Lindsey.hatfield@marketingderby.co.uk by January 6. Applicants should provide an outline of their business idea, a brief background of their story so far and explain the reasons why they should be the next Rising Star.
The winner will be announced at Marketing Derby’s Annual Business Event, which will take place at Derby Theatre on January 17.