Hartpury students impress in Enterprise Finals pitches

Eight student entrepreneurs from Hartpury University and College were given the opportunity to pitch their ideas to local business leaders in the Hartpury Enterprise Finals.

The pitches, which have been running for four years, see students pitching Dragons’ Den-style, giving them a chance to develop business acumen, build confidence and potentially boost their career and financial prospects.

Having previously submitted full business plans and a 90-second pitch video, the finalists explained their proposals in detail before facing questions and constructive feedback from a panel of experts from organisations including Renouf Wealth Management, Federation of Small Businesses, 71a, Hazlewoods and Westend Office Suites.

The class of 2023 includes Amy Cook-Davis (A-levels), Matilda Harris (A-levels), Zoe Bridges (Access to Higher Education Diploma), Avery Caine (BSc (Hons) Equine Performance and Rehabilitation), Cindy Cowling (MRes Equestrian Performance), Jonty Briggs (BSc (Hons) Canine Training and Performance), Lance Craswell (BSc (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport), and Liam le Roux (BA (Hons) Sports Business Management).

Each university finalist will now be assigned a member of the panel for a 12-month mentorship, while the college finalists will be onboarded to a business programme that will help them develop their ideas further. The finalists will also receive a share of the £6,000 Enterprise Fund.

Simon Spooner, Head of Innovation, Careers and Enterprise (ICE) at Hartpury said: “This year, we’ve had an incredible mix of students that were already running businesses selling fare, such as therapy cosmetic products and artisanal cakes, through to creative solutions for schools in PE.

“We’ve seen some amazing concept ideas that could disrupt the golf and equine industries, one of which is already at prototype stage and gaining praise for its potential to benefit horse welfare.”

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Along with giving the students the chance to develop their business idea, the students gain a greater understanding of business topics. Students which did not make the finals this year will be given support by the Hartpury ICE team to develop their ideas ahead of next year’s process.

Cindy Cowling, one of the finalists and an MRes Equestrian Performance student said: “Even for mature students like me, the process is a big learning curve and incredibly valuable. I’m grateful for the financial support offered which will be fundamental to keep the project moving forward.

“Having the support of multiple mentors is a huge asset, so I’d like to thank the Hartpury ICE team for assembling such a knowledgeable and diverse panel.”

Michelle Collins, Local Enterprise Manager at NatWest said: “The Enterprise Finals are a fabulous event that shows the dedication and commitment put in by the whole of the Hartpury Innovation, Careers and Enterprise team. I’ve really enjoyed working with students to shape their business ideas.

“I was very impressed with the standard and quality of not just the pitches but the ideas themselves and very much look forward to so seeing how the businesses shape up going forward.”

Ian Renouf-Watkins, Managing Director of Renouf Wealth Management said: “This was yet another great year showcasing the extraordinary maturity and commitment shown by the students.”

Sam Holliday, FSB Development Manager added: “I’d like to thank Simon Spooner and the Hartpury ICE team for their efforts and for making the Enterprise Finals a success. I’ve been staggered and hugely motivated by the passion shown by the students, and I think this competition bestows great credit on Hartpury and its commitment to local business and entrepreneurship.

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