RHP backs local entrepreneurs

Published by Eddie for Richmond Housing Partnership Limited in Housing and also in Communities

Richmond Housing Partnership (RHP) is backing local entrepreneurs by sponsoring Richmond’s very own version of ‘Dragon’s Den’. RHP Director of Customer Services, Sarah Thomas, is on the panel of ‘dragons’ deciding which budding social entrepreneur will receive £10,000 worth of prize money and the judges’ expertise to help kick-start their business.

Co-ordinated by Richmond Council and Richmond Social Enterprise Partnership, the competition closed for entries on 6 May and shortlisted candidates will pitch their ideas to the panel in June.

Sarah says: “I’m really looking forward to giving hardworking local people a chance to shine. It’s a tough time and many people are out of work, or in a job that doesn’t recognise their talent. This competition helps to recognise the talent right on our doorstep.”

Twickenham resident Rachel McLean, founder of For Sanity’s Sake, will join Sarah on the panel alongside former Dragon’s Den contestant Jason Roberts and co-founder and vice-chair of Metrobank, Vernon Hill. Runners up will also receive a £1,000 package of business support.

Cllr Pamela Fleming, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Communities, Business and Culture, said: “This is an exciting competition and a truly golden opportunity for our entrepreneurial residents to make their mark on the local economy. We are delighted to be working with several partners including RHP on this fantastic project.”

For more information, visit www.richmondsden.co.uk.