The Prince's Trust and Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, announced the winners of its inaugural Ideas Mean Business Awards last night - the culmination of a campaign designed to engage young people from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to take their business ideas to the next level.
Open to 18-30 year olds from a wide range of backgrounds, thousands of young people across the UK responded to the campaign and last night 24 winners were crowned, giving them access to a bespoke programme of advice, guidance, mentorship and up to £5,000 financial support.
Some of the 24 winners were presented through a series of short films created by SBTV, the ground-breaking youth organisation. The films challenge long-held cultural assumptions about young people, using footage that captures the raw untold ambition, passion and invention behind Britain’s innovative future.
Science Minister Sam Gyimah explained:
Nick Stace, UK Chief Executive for The Prince’s Trust, commented:
Meet the #IdeasMeanBusiness Award winners
- Adam Land, The Ground Up: Using natural building to build confidence in displaced and vulnerable adults.
- Adam Root, Oishii Yatai Ltd.: The first regenerative washing machine filter, keeping microplastics out of the ocean.
- Amy Paris, The London Sleep Company Ltd.: Dedicated to sleep and pursing a sleep revolution through education.
- Angela McCauleey, Raphaella Designs: Handmade luxury cushions, using beautiful re-purposed, re-cycled fabrics.
- Carolina Jobb, Smoke and Mirrors: Backstage tool bags for theatre industry professionals.
- Charlotte Badkin, Sepparo: A commercial property search platform for developers.
- Claire Skelton: Precious metal jewellery from your own treasured pieces; reforming every last speck of gold dust.
- Emily Woodhouse, Collaborate: A cross between LinkedIn and Tindr, solving the communication gap between first time job hunters and employers.
- Fernando Mariano, Unfinished Works: Original work inspired by their client's lives, stories and narratives.
- Fortunate Filda Frizell, Filda: Chemical and toxin free hair colourants, hair care products and hair extensions specially designed for black women's unique hair care needs.
- George Howell, Ideal First Car: Here to revolutionise the way young drivers go about getting their hands on their first car. Designed for 17-24 year olds by 17-24 year olds.
- Hannah Akinbode: Fashionable heated gloves for women - keeping cold hands warm, with style.
- Joshua Akorah, The Valentine Watch: A computer game set in the Victorian era with a non-linear narrative.
- Laura Niehorster, Proud Pads: Sanitary pads that can be washed and re-used for 5 years, reducing waste by 97%.
- Laurie Freeman: A range of 'Shrub' and 'Switchel' drinks; two 17th century vinegar-based beverages.
- Leah Bertram: Contemporary lifestyle brand specialising in personalised luggage and handbags.
- Paula Strahl, Pallula: A fashion and accessories brand with a conscience.
- Ross Davies, Grown Urban Ltd.: Vertical farming using Grow Pods, allowing storage of greens for up to 10x longer.
- Ruan Abu Ishira, Halalivery Ltd.: On-demand delivery app to connect people with Halal restaurants, butcheries, and grocery stores.
- Ryan Mcqueen, Vita Voucher: Online platform that provides discounted health, fitness and wellness services.
- Shada Jenkins, Healthy Hair Gym Ltd.: Plant based hair-care to treat hair fall and traction alopecia, particularly within the afro hair community.
- Stephanie Ronaldo, Room for Help Ltd.: Homeshare company which aims to provide affordable accommodation in London by introducing the concept of home sharing.
- Sylvester Ologbenla: Muscle recovery and rehabilitation, in the comfort of your own home.
- Yagmur Masmas, Greenstory: Sustainably produced and distributed innovative stationary products.