A business-focused private members club is awarding membership and business support packages worth an estimated £100,000 to five new founders of companies that aim to solve environmental issues.
Home Grown, whose members typically include entrepreneurs, business leaders and investors, is recognising those who have begun their entrepreneurial journey inspired by a meaningful purpose.
And it began the year by launching its Green Shoots initiative to support new founders with business ideas that focus on solving environmental and sustainability issues.
The five successful applicants will receive full membership and access to the club and its wider community for six months. The package includes mentoring by experts and access to a programme of workshops on legal, accounting, marketing, HR and supply chain issues.
And while they’ll be able to network and pitch to potential investors, there’s a bonus in the form of a £2,000 budget for food and drinks as well as meeting rooms and bedroom spend in the club.
Although their decision to become an entrepreneur may have been accelerated by the current economic climate, their vision will have developed over a longer period
Home Grown’s key investment partner, the early-stage investor SFC Capital, plans to invest a total of £11m in projects by the end of this year, and is looking for founders with innovative and impactful business ideas.
“We believe there are a lot of talented people who have lost employment due to the effects of the pandemic who may have been dreaming of starting their own business,” said Joost de Kruiff, General Manager of Home Grown.
“Although their decision to become an entrepreneur may have been accelerated by the current economic climate, their vision and motivation will have developed over a longer period of time.
“Home Grown also acknowledges the importance of the environment as one of the most pressing issues of our time, hence why the programme is focused on supporting new founders whose companies are aiming to support one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
Stephen Page, CEO and Founder of SFC Capital said: “Out of dark times great opportunities exist for those willing to take the risk and start a business. People unwilling to leave the comfort of a big company prior to Covid may no longer have that option and can find themselves unemployed. What greater time to go into the unknown and start a new business?”
The deadline for applications is January 31. Details here
