STOCKPORT BUSINESS CENTRE LAUNCHES SEARCH FOR NEW START-UP

After a successful first year Stockport Business & Innovation Centre (SBIC) is launching its second search for the region’s most promising business start-up.

With the innovative bereavement gifts business, Inspired Goodbyes, taking the honours in 2014, the Spark Stockport Business Idea Competition is back open for entries with a new website www.spark-stockport.co.uk and a fresh mission to find a venture with promise.

The Stockport Council owned SBIC, based in Broadstone Mill, Reddish, and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, provides flexible office space specifically aimed at start-up businesses looking to make their first move into professional offices. 

It also offers mentoring and business incubation services to help start-ups develop a robust business plan and support them as they grow.

The Spark competition is looking for a business idea with real potential and the winning entrant will receive a comprehensive package, worth c £15,000, to help get their idea off the ground.

This includes free office space for a year at SBIC, marketing, product development & PR support along with a business banking start-up package, expert guidance on finance, legal, employment law & IP protection. 

Entrants will also benefit from the competition workshops & as part of the judging process, they will talk through their idea with business experts who can help them develop their concept further.

“It worked for us,” said Helen Lawson of Inspired Goodbyes.

“If you have a credible business idea that you are passionate about, then make sure you enter. The prize is invaluable, but be prepared. It’s hard work, but it’s worth it.”

Incubation Director Tony Corcoran said:

“We unearthed a real gem last year and hope to do the same again this year. This competition is the perfect opportunity for those dreaming of building their own business, with guidance from experts and support along the way. We know that this area has an entrepreneurial spirit and we are looking to help those with a unique business concept to turn their ideas into reality.”  

Councillor Patrick McAuley, Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said:

“The existing SBIC tenants are testament to what can be achieved with the right application, drive and support.  There are some exciting young businesses at the Centre that are benefitting from the opportunity to mix and work with other fledgling companies and we want to give someone else the chance to join them.”

The Spark Stockport Business Idea Competition is open to entries from now. Closing date is 9^th March 2015. To enter the competition simply complete the entry form at www.spark-stockport.co.uk or follow the link from the SBIC website www.stockport-bic.co.uk. The winner will be announced in early June 2015. 

For more information about Stockport Business & Innovation Centre visit www.stockport-bic.co.uk or call 0161 443 4100.