Timeline
“I’m convinced that about half of what separates successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance."
Steve Jobs
ROUND ONE – THE VIDEO PITCH
Monday 28 February – Friday 25 March
The competition opened for entries. You can submit a 1-minute video pitch via the website. Open to all and can be watched and reviewed by the public.
Monday 28 February
The Big Pitch launched on Monday 28 February 2022.
Friday 25 March, 12 noon
Deadline for ALL video submissions. Voting closes.
25 March – 1 April
Judging - 10 most popular videos progress to Round 2. Round 1 judges decide on the 10 best remaining business ideas.
Monday 4 April
20 successful individuals and/or teams notified and invited to the Round 2.
ROUND TWO - RESIDENTIAL BOOT CAMP
Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 May
20 successful individuals and teams with the best ideas are invited to a residential boot camp on 12 - 14 May 2022. This will take place at the Moller Institute in Cambridge, accommodation provided.
There'll be a variety of interactive workshops: business planning, financial planning, marketing, presentation and pitching skills. Following this, all semi-finalists will deliver a three-minute pitch to a panel of judges followed by five minutes of Q&A. Six of the best will progress to the final. This will be announced by Wednesday 18 May.
ROUND THREE – THE GRAND FINAL
Friday 20 May
1-2-1 business consultation with mentor
Monday 23 May, 9am
Finalists submit a two-page business plan and financial forecast.
Tuesday 24 May
Judges recieve submissions from finalists.
Thursday 26 May, 5.30-9.15pm
The Final Pitches
Location: Science Centre ARU Cambridge Campus
Six finalists take the stage to deliver that all-important final three-minute pitch. There will be an expert judging panel and invited audience of students, staff, partners, family and friends to help support those pitching. We anticipate potential investors and small business owners joining us for what is going to be a stimulating event. Winners and prizes will be announced on the night. To book your place for the Grand Final, please click here.