Flying Start Rally a Success
Combined Universities in Cornwall press release
Some of Devon and Cornwall's up and coming entrepreneurs brought their ideas and inspirations to a motivational event held at Eden on Friday, organised by the National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NGCE). The NGCE Flying Start Rally was sponsored by the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) with support from Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC) and The University of Plymouth.
Nearly one hundred students and recent graduates discovered how to turn their business ideas into reality with advice and insights from successful entrepreneurs and interactive workshops delivered by experts in areas such as franchising, patenting, finance and networking.
The event was an opportunity for the region's future business pioneers to meet like-minded people, make contacts in the business community and be inspired to take the step into starting their own business or expanding a concept. As Catriona Bell, Business Development Officer for Combined Universities in Cornwall explains, "The popularity of this event demonstrates the enthusiasm and drive of local students and graduates to carry their knowledge into the world of commerce and achieve success. It is vital for the Cornish economy that these small businesses and new ventures can be encouraged and receive guidance in the early stages and that's why events like these are invaluable. I was particularly pleased to see so many participants from across the CUC partnership here today - it has been an upbeat and revealing event and feedback has been really positive."
Dr Lorna Collins of NGCE welcomed delegates, before handing over to a panel of local entrepreneurs who provided inspiration with their own stories, followed by a question and answer session. The panel included Tom Kay, Managing Director of the award-winning ethical surf clothing company Finisterre, Tammy Barclay, a commercial consultant who has recently moved to Cornwall and set up her own business, and successful local designer Jethro Macey.