Hopefuls tackle business dragons

The business brains behind four start-ups are pitching their growth plans to a panel of businesspeople at the Park Inn, Manvers in a local version of BBC hit Dragons’ Den.

The best pitch of the evening will net a £1,500 investment and exclusive coverage in South Yorkshire Business Magazine.

Young entrepreneur Gavin Edley (24) of Moorgate is hoping to secure support to expand his speciality tea business, Vitalife Ltd, by introducing new healthy snacks and drinks.

He said: “We’ve just launched eight new ranges of tea and we’re looking at health snacks at the moment.

“It would mean quite a lot to win. Advice is invaluable, so we’re after as much as we can absorb,” he added.

Textile artist Gemma Nemer (28), of Rawmarshis discussing her plans to expand The Button Tin in the town's Imperial Buildings, where she runs successful vintage craft workshops.

She said: “The prize fund would be a great injection to move forward and grow things. I’m hoping to get a member of staff because at the moment I’m doing it all myself. I’ve planned a photoshoot and I’m hoping to push the business into the national press.”

“But there are three other good businesses shortlisted. Either way I’m looking forward to taking some inspiration from businesspeople in the audience. I think we will all leave with some good opportunities.”

Drive IT Home owner Andrew Cain is looking to target new markets with his interactive road safety presentations, while Eddy and Sally Waters of Simply Inventive Ltd are looking for support to take a unique plumbing product to market.

The last such event, in July this year, was won by Kara (37) and Tony Chapman (41) of Rotherham’s Whistle Stop Sweet Shop. As one of the dragons this time around, Tony will be passing on his own knowledge and experience.

Kara said: “Winning it is not so important. Taking part made us step back and look at our business. It focused a lot more on areas which needed focussing on and gave us a bit of direction. That was more valuable than anything else—our business just boomed because of it.”

She added: “As a result of taking part everyone gets teamed with a mentor. Ours was amazing—having someone listen to your ideas and challenge them is great. We’re hoping to have a website next year, which we wouldn’t have done ourselves.”

The event is hosted by UK Steel Enterprise and Rotherham Enterprise Board and funded by the European Regional Development Fund.