Kent Business Start-Up Journey (BSUJ) came to a climactic finish on Wednesday 30 March as eight students pitched their business ideas to a panel of School directors, local entrepreneurs and university benefactors.

Panel members included Paul Dyer (Towergate Co-founder and university benefactor), Adam Baker (Santander Universities Brand Relationship Manager), David Williamson (KBS’ Director of External Services), Martin Meyer (School Director) and Kent alumnus, Bal Sandher (Founder, Hectic Lifestyles).

BSUJ is a new programme of events, workshops and start-up acceleration activities that was successfully piloted during the 15-16 academic year and involved approximately 200 students.
Business Administration student Amit Madnani and Computing student Mate Tukacs impressed the panel with their strong pitches, winning joint first place and £500 for their respective businesses.

Mate, who pitched nightlife business ‘Playlate’ said:
“I think the Business Start-up Journey is an amazing experience and was a well-structured programme. I liked how there was an open day at the very beginning with an amazing speaker that talked to us with passion. The amount of help and guidance mentors gave throughout the Journey was great; KBS brought in some really influential people who devoted their own time to students and gave back to the school.”

Further congratulations go to Brenda Okandju who took 2nd place and received £300 and Romane Maire who pitched her way to 3rd place and received £200.

Following its success, the programme will continue to run in following academic years to build on its achievements. Kent Business School will be recruiting students from both Canterbury and Medway Campuses in autumn 2016 to embark on their own business start-up journeys.

For more information, contact ASPIRE Project Officer, Jack McDonnell on 01227 816492 or jm773@kent.ac.uk