Get down to do the business

22 November 2009

BUDDING entrepreneurs are off in the race for a £10,000 top prize for the winner to turn their business ideas into reality.

Now in its fourth year, the E-Factor competition begins with students pitching their idea to a panel of judges.

The chosen few then have to submit a business summary before ten finalists undergo a series of Masterclasses and receive mentoring from an industry professional to help them develop their case.

And finally they present their idea to a panel of judges, as well as pitch their idea to an audience of invited guests who vote for their favourite.

The launch was at the Knowledge Dock Business Centre last week. Among the sponsors are London City Airport, Tate & Lyle, Knowledge East Entrepreneurs Network and Blue Sky Media.

Knowledge Dock spokesman Martin Chan said win or lose, the competition has helped to develop the entrepreneurial skills of hundreds of students and helped them in their future careers.

"The £10,000 top prize is a great motivator for students to test their business idea with