Budding entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North West of England have the opportunity to secure £150,000 in funding, advertising and resource support through the Havas Boost programme, launched by Havas Media Network UK.
This initiative aims to empower entrepreneurs outside London by providing vital financial and strategic support to those who demonstrate a purpose beyond making a profit.
The program invites ten applicants to pitch their business ideas at a Dragons’ Den-style event during Global Entrepreneurship Week (18-25 November). To be eligible, applicants must come from a less privileged background and have had an existing business for two to three years that embodies a commitment to social impact in addition to commercial success.
Following the pitch event in Manchester, a panel of local entrepreneurial talent will shortlist four candidates, from which the Havas Boost board will select the final winner. The decision to base the program in Manchester was inspired by insights from a YouGov business researchwhich found that 40% of disadvantaged under-35s in the North West believe there are limited opportunities to start a business, compared to just 19% in London.
The 2024 Havas Boost program is supported by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and the Media Trust, and awareness will be raised through a special advertising campaign across Manchester.
For more information and to apply, visit Havas Boost.