North East entrepreneurs encouraged to apply for share of £250k pot

Aspiring entrepreneurs have only got six weeks left to apply for a support package worth £10k per head for 25 finalists.

Applications close on July 31 to be part of the icreate entrepreneurs programme based at Wilton Centre, between Middlesbrough and Redcar, that aims to help budding businesses to fast-track their ideas into an investment ready pitch in just six weeks.

Dr Mike Anderson, the manager of the icreate programme said that people should not delay in making their applications: “Places are limited so anyone who wants to be considered really must apply sooner rather than later.

“The programme is open to anyone looking for help and guidance when it comes to turning their ideas into a viable business, irrespective of the type or nature of their proposed enterprise.

He added: “The scheme offers an intensive schedule of first-rate, free support and guidance for every aspect of creating a successful business; from marketing and selling to funding, finance and legal issues.”

The programme starts on September 1 2014 and runs each Monday for 6 consecutive weeks at Wilton Centre.

The workshops are being delivered by a large group of prestigious professional organisations including Ward Hadaway, Winning Pitch, Rivers Capital, UNW and many more.

In addition to the weekly sessions, finalists will have ongoing expert mentoring and networking opportunities throughout the programme.

They will also be provided with a fully equipped office to use at Wilton Centre with internet and phone connection and space in the Centre’s Innovation Accelerator.

The entire support package is worth £10,000.

At the end of the programme all participants will pitch their proposals to potential investors at events in the North East and London.

Applications close on the 31st of July. For more information and to apply visit www.icreatefunding.com, facebook.com/icreate Fundingtwitter.com/icreateFunding