NEWS.

Pitchfest to help more businesses get investment ready - Georgia Riley

02nd Sep 2021

Innovate UK EDGE is looking for high-growth small to medium-sized businesses that are aiming to raise £500k+ of investment to scale their operations. 

Targeted at the best and brightest businesses with new or existing innovative products or services, Pitchfest is open for applications once again. 

The initiative is designed to help ambitious and innovative businesses to secure investment. It gives companies access to two days of comprehensive pitch training, access to leading pitch and investment experts, insight into investor networks across the UK and bespoke follow-on support. 

Pitchfest is open to businesses across the UK, with identical events taking place in most nations and regions. We took a closer look at the North of England regional event, which has a deadline of September 13 for applications.

Pitchfest in the North of England

The highly interactive, bespoke training stage runs over two days in October. 15 companies with the most compelling presentations will then be selected to pitch to a panel of investors for feedback, at a showcase event in November.

Iain Edwards, Pitchfest Champion North of England, comments;

“Pitchfest is now approaching its third edition in the Northern region. It challenges the entrepreneurs and helps them develop and then hone a compelling investor message, leading to great results. Angels, VCs and Family Offices all see Pitchfest graduates as being excellently prepared. In short, Pitchfest works in equal measure for investors and investees.”

Don’t take it from us…

This is some of the strong feedback we have received from participants in earlier regional events in 2021.

“Pitchfest was a transformational experience for our company, and the help we received from Chantelle, Paul and the team was amazing. They helped us identify our need for investment and the process taught us a huge amount, including what different types of investors are looking for, and to articulate our value proposition and the investment opportunity in a way that would appeal to the different types of potential investors. 

Throughout the process, Chantelle, Paul and the Pitchfest team checked in on a regular basis and made sure we got all the support we needed. As a result, we have an investment offer on the table.” Lucy Burns, Dataphiles Ltd.

“Going through the Pitchfest programme has been fantastic: the opportunity has given me a greater understanding of my business and my own personal capabilities. The team have been amazing, providing great insights and support and the communication was great, always on hand when needed! 

Working with Jane has been an absolute pleasure: a professional with very high standards, she takes her training seriously, she has a warm and friendly personality, and is at all times respectful. This was part of the programme’s success for me.” Amanda Cook, Founder, I Love Snacks. 

How to apply

To submit your application, click here  

Pitchfest is highly competitive. Applications are assessed by a panel of experts and only 15 will be successful in each region.

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