Social entrepreneurs urged to submit their ideas to Chivas Regal contest

BIRMINGHAM’s budding social entrepreneurs have been invited to enter their ideas in a new competition supported by whisky brand Chivas Regal.

It is the second year that the competition, dubbed The Venture, has been run.

With more than £650,000 in funding and resources, The Venture is open to any for-profit start-up that creates both financial value and a positive impact on the lives of others.

Last year’s competition awarded businesses tackling diverse social and environmental issues: from a wireless field-monitoring system that makes water use in farming more efficient, to a Columbian enterprise that turns waste materials into stylish furniture.
 
This year, the UK finalist will receive £10,000 in prize money plus bespoke business mentoring as well as the opportunity to compete with social entrepreneurs from over 25 countries for a share of the $1m fund as part of the Global Final.

All finalists will also take part in The Venture’s Accelerator Week where they will receive training and business advice, as well as mentoring from some of the biggest and most influential names in business.
 
Last year’s competition saw Two Fingers Brewing Co. winning the coveted UK title that has since seen business develop rapidly.

Will Waldron, co-founder of the company, is originally from Solihull and took part in a launch event in Birmingham to encourage other entrepreneurs to follow in his footsteps.

“I feel really passionate about telling local people about The Venture, as it is a great opportunity for local businesses to gain funding and insights from experts,” he said.

“We saw The Venture as a launch pad to turbocharge the growth of Two Fingers Brewing Co. – so that millions more people, all around the world, can help mankind just by drinking beer! It has been a fantastic boost in profile for us, leading to multiple domestic and international enquiries and helping to open up distribution to over 16,000 on-trade venues in the UK.”