The 2024 Havas Boost Programme offers significant financial resources to entrepreneurs in the North-West. With a total of £150,000 in funding, the initiative targets business owners from disadvantaged backgrounds to help them succeed.
This programme provides not only funding but also strategic support. It is designed to empower business owners with a purpose beyond profit, making a positive impact on society.
Purpose of the Havas Boost Programme
The initiative aims to empower business owners outside London by providing vital financial and strategic support to those demonstrating a purpose beyond profit. The programme invites ten applicants to pitch their business ideas in a Dragons’ Den-style event during Global Entrepreneurship Week (18-25 November).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must come from less advantaged backgrounds and have an existing business of 2-3 years that embodies a commitment to societal impact alongside commercial success.
Following the pitch event in Manchester, a panel of local entrepreneurial talent will shortlist four candidates. From these, the Havas Boost board will select the ultimate winner.
Manchester as the Base
The decision to base the programme in Manchester was driven by insights from a YouGov business survey. This survey found that 40% of less advantaged under-35s in the North West feel there are limited opportunities for starting a business, compared to just 19% in London.
The 2024 Havas Boost programme is supported by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and the Media Trust. Awareness will be raised through a dedicated advertising campaign across Manchester.
For more information and to apply, visit the Havas Boost website.
Support Beyond Funding
The programme provides more than just financial aid. It offers strategic support to help businesses grow and succeed.
By focusing on societal impact, the programme ensures that businesses are not just profitable but also beneficial to the community.
Panel of Local Talent
The panel of local entrepreneurial talent plays a crucial role in the selection process. They shortlist the candidates based on their pitches and business potential.
This local focus ensures that the unique challenges and opportunities of the North-West are taken into account.
This approach leverages local knowledge and expertise to make informed decisions.
Importance of Societal Impact
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to societal impact alongside commercial success, a core criterion for the programme.
This ensures that the businesses supported are aligned with the broader goals of community and societal well-being.
By emphasising societal impact, the programme encourages entrepreneurs to think beyond profit.
Conclusion of the Event
The event will culminate in the selection of the ultimate winner by the Havas Boost board.
The winner will receive not only financial support but also strategic guidance to help their business thrive.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Havas Boost Programme offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North-West. With a blend of financial and strategic support, it aims to create businesses that are both commercially successful and socially impactful.
The 2024 Havas Boost Programme holds significant promise for entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North-West.
By providing both financial and strategic support, it aims to create a positive impact on both the business community and society at large.
