Aston graduate helps Branson attract future entrepreneurs
AN Aston University graduate has been appointed as a business ambassador for Sir Richard Branson to help inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Matt Roberts, Aston Business School graduate, has been chosen as a Regional Pioneer Ambassador for business start-up initiative scheme, Virgin Media Pioneers. He is one of only 12 entrepreneurs chosen from across the UK, and will be organising business events and co-ordinating the Pioneers community for the West Midlands region.
The Virgin Media Pioneers Programme is an initiative of Sir Richard’s that provides a free online community allowing young entrepreneurial talent to connect. The site allows people to share their ideas and experiences via video blogs, an engaging TV series and to receive expert professional mentoring and advice.
Roberts is co- founder of the innovative company Bean2bed, with his fellow classmate Max Game. A Bean2Bed is an innovative, space saving dual purpose piece of furniture capable of converting from beanbag to bed in 30 seconds.
The company manufactures everything in the UK and dispatches on a weekly basis. The beds contain a unique CMHR crumb foam eliminating the need for re-fills. The firm does bespoke designs and corporate branding and the beds have attracted celebrity customers such as former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell and Jasper Carrott.
Roberts said: “I love meeting other young entrepreneurs and working together to help each other grow our businesses. Virgin Media Pioneers is a fantastic platform which connects like-minded entrepreneurs from across the UK and beyond.
“I am very much looking forward to organising the first regional networking evening in the Midlands and seeing business relationships blossom. I would love to furnish Richard Branson’s airport lounges with Bean2Bed one day.”
Sir Richard Branson, Pioneer-at-Large for Virgin Media Pioneers, said: “There is a huge amount we can do to unlock entrepreneurial potential and Virgin Media Pioneers is empowering young entrepreneurs to fulfil their dreams of owning and managing successful businesses.
“Starting up your own business is a big challenge and many of the obstacles are daunting and, at times, can seem insurmountable. But with the right support and expert advice young entrepreneurs can find their way and Virgin Media Pioneers will be with them every step of the way.”
Virgin Media Pioneers was formed by Virgin Media in 2010 as an online community for young entrepreneurs. Around 4,000 members now interact, using videos and blogging to create a peer-to-peer support and mentoring service.
