Mums and dads who have combined family life with starting and running their own business are being encouraged to take their next step at the West Wiltshire Business Expo.
The event, taking place at The Civic in Trowbridge on Thursday 8 October, is inviting early-stage, product-based business founders preparing for their first investment to pitch to a panel of experienced entrepreneurs, including former BBC Dragons’ Den investor Nick Jenkins, founder of Moonpig.com.
For mums and dads who have built a business around school runs, childcare and family commitments – perhaps starting at the kitchen table or turning a hobby or idea into a growing company – the ‘Get Investment Ready’ Dragons’ Den offers an opportunity to practise an investment pitch and receive constructive feedback.
Meet the Dragons
Nick Jenkins founded Moonpig in 1999, growing the online greetings card and gifting company to five million customers before it was sold in 2011 for £120 million.
Joining him will be Monty George, co-founder of Wiltshire-based online furniture brand Furniturebox, which now has a turnover exceeding £25 million, and Wiltshire entrepreneur and angel investor Joanna Jensen.
Joanna built Childs Farm into the UK’s No.1 baby and child toiletries brand before selling the business to PZ Cussons in 2022 for £68 million. She now chairs the EIS Association, sits on company boards and writes a regular column for The Sunday Times.
Entrepreneurs looking for pitching practice, business advice, publicity and feedback can email email hidden; JavaScript is required to request a Dragons’ Den application form.
A day of ideas and business support
Business mums and dads don’t have to enter the Dragons’ Den to benefit from the Expo.
The free event will feature more than 40 regional business exhibitors, providing an opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs, make contacts and find support for starting or growing a business.
A packed programme of speakers will also cover subjects including AI, marketing, technology, business finance, cyber security, accounting and tax, HR, workplace wellbeing, skills and apprenticeships, sustainability and investment.
Whether you are running a side business around family life, have recently taken the leap into self-employment or are looking to grow an established company, the Expo offers a chance to step away from the daily workload and focus on what comes next.
West Wiltshire Business Expo takes place at The Civic, Trowbridge, on Thursday 8 October. Entry is free, with tickets available through Eventbrite.
