The Kent Foundation, in partnership with Dartford Borough Council and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has launched Dartford Means Business, giving local entrepreneurs the chance to win up to £2,000 of business investment.
The project aims to create a vibrant ecosystem where experienced business mentors collaborate with aspiring and new entrepreneurs. It includes a 1-2-1 mentorship programme and business showcase event, culminating in a ‘Pitch Your Idea’ competition.
Dartford Means Business is open to anyone in Dartford who has a business idea or has been trading for less than three years and wants to grow their company.
The programme also recruits experienced business owners, training them as mentors and then matching them with aspiring and new businesses to showcase their creativity, talent and drive.
During the project, Dartford-based entrepreneurs in the pre-launch and startup phases of business will be paired with a trained business mentor.
Through three 1-2-1 mentoring sessions, mentors will help the entrepreneurs develop their business ideas to prepare for a business showcase day and pitching competition.
The eight-month project will culminate in the Dartford Means Business – Let’s Get Together Business Showcase on Thursday 20 March, where up to 20 new and startup businesses will network with established Kent businesses and present their ideas to a panel of judges, competing for a £2,000 investment.
The showcase provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to get their new business known in the local community and to form useful connections in Dartford’s business network.
The winning pitch will receive £2,000 and £1,000 will be awarded to two runners-up.
Caroline Hallett, director of Kent Foundation, said: “We are delighted to be leading this exciting project demonstrating Dartford Means Business, bringing existing businesses in Dartford together, training mentors to help support the next generation of business owners.”
Dartford Council leader Jeremy Kite added: “Dartford truly means business, and the Council wants to support the next generation of entrepreneurs to realise their dreams.
“We encourage our existing successful business owners to get on board and volunteer as a mentor – your skills and expertise can make all the difference.”
For more information on Dartford Means Business and how to participate, contact hello@kentfoundation.org.
