East Mids entrepreneur lands Dragons’ Den investment
Derby-based entrepreneur Ed Hollands has secured the support and funding of Dragon Jenny Campbell on the latest episode of the BBC series Dragons’ Den (February 11).
The 23 year old owner of DrivenMedia has spent the last two years building his business using the advertising ‘space’ on the sides of trucks and lorries to market products and services.
Hollands works with a range of hauliers, advertisers and marketing agencies but felt he needed more help and support to grow his fledgling business.
Last night on Dragons’ Den he pitched to the Dragons and one, Jenny Campbell, who owns YourCash, offered an investment of £30,000 for a 20 per cent share in his business, which Hollands accepted.
Hollands, who lives in Nottingham, said: “The whole experience was overwhelming and challenging. The Dragons leave nothing to chance and will grill you over your business idea, your vision and your financials. I’m so humbled by the fact that Jenny Campbell has seen my potential and I’m looking forward to learning from her.”
Jenny Campbell
Campbell said: “I am very much looking forward to working with Driven Media and Ed, a young entrepreneur brimming with potential. Mentoring bright individuals at the start of their career is something I have been passionate about for a long time and I’m confident with Ed under my wing, both he and his business will achieve success. I am excited to watch DrivenMedia grow from strength to strength and am delighted to be part of the journey ahead.”
Hollands came up with the idea soon after finishing a degree at the University of Derby where he achieved a first-class honours in business studies. His tutor is thrilled with his early success.
Bev Crighton, employer engagement lead at the University of Derby, said: “Mentoring Ed has been a pleasure. We are so pleased for him, he was always a great student. It’s been an honour to support him and we will continue to do so.
“He always had ambitions to start a business and when he did we took advertising not only to show our support – it is simply a great business idea. We wish him every success and look forward to seeing him develop his business further with his Dragon.”
