£150,000 available to support North-West entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds

Budding entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North-West of England have a chance 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 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). 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 which Havas Boost’s board will select the ultimate winner. The decision to base the programme in Manchester was driven by insights from a YouGov business survey, which 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, and awareness will be raised through a dedicated advertising campaign across Manchester.

For more information and to apply, visit Havas Boost.

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£150,000 available to support North-West entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds