Staffordshire Students Shine in 'Dragon's Den' Style Entrepreneurship Challenge
Ignite programme culminates in a pitch competition where young people showcase business ideas and develop vital skills.
By Aisha Mahmood
••3 min read
AI
Generic image of young students working together on business plans in a college setting.
Students from schools and colleges across Staffordshire have tested their entrepreneurial skills in a 'Dragon's Den' style competition, part of the Staffordshire County Council's Ignite programme.
The contest, delivered by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce over the past year, aims to equip young people with the skills needed for business or employment in a competitive market. The programme combines online learning and workshops covering business planning, marketing, and financial management.
The inaugural Ignite Pitch Challenge saw five student teams present their business plans to a panel of industry experts. The 'Sweet Retreat' team from South Staffordshire College, comprising George Whale, Izzy Wallbank, Kailen Goalby, Jayden Choudhury, Seth Newey, and Cobie Ellison, were crowned champions for their college-based confectionary business.
“
"We really enjoyed the hands-on experience where we’ve all learnt skills we didn’t even know existed, stuff that we will be able to apply to jobs in the workforce and whatever we end up doing in the future. I think it’s perfect to add to a portfolio and CV."
Highly commended was Team 'AfterGlow' from NSCG Stafford Campus, whose members Kelsey Walker, Abigail Knowles, and Olivia-Rose Lowe pitched a bespoke festival fashion business. Kelsey Walker described the experience as 'lovely' and a 'good opportunity to find yourself and step outside your comfort zone'.
The judging panel included Stefan Northfield (Black Onyx Academy), Kate Hardy (saddlery business owner), Duncan Simcox (DS Business Consultancy Services), Vicky Perry (Head of Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service), and Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader of Staffordshire County Council.
“
"I was blown away by the calibre of the entries and the creativity, ambition and enthusiasm shown by all the students who took part. It’s fantastic to see so much entrepreneurial talent among Staffordshire’s young people. The Ignite programme gives them the opportunity to develop valuable business skills, but it’s also about building their confidence, helping them find their voice and giving them the belief to turn their ideas into reality. We’re excited to have hosted our first Ignite Pitch Challenge and look forward to seeing what these young people go on to achieve."
The winning students will receive gift vouchers and support from the county council to find individual work experience opportunities. All participants were awarded certificates. Over the last six years, the Ignite programme has assisted over 36,000 young people in Staffordshire in developing entrepreneurial skills and confidence. PeoplePlus will continue to deliver the programme for the next two years.
