PEOPLE wanting to start their own business are being offered the chance to win their share of £30,000.
The cash is being put up by Office Outlet today which is known as FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Friday.
The name of the day is coined because the middle of January is said to be the time when most people feel they are ‘missing out’ on making a new start to the year.
To counter the chances of ‘FOMO’ in the West Midlands, the supplier has launched its ‘Big Ideas Fund’, a competition giving those with limited resources but great ideas the chance to start a new business.
With £30,000 up for grabs for six innovative business ideas, the competition also offers a full package of support for entrepreneurs or those with fledgling business ideas, to kick start their projects.
Research shows more people in the region will embark on a new career path today than any other day of the year due to 2018 regrets and new year resolutions.
People eligible to apply include entrepreneurs who just need a boost or for would-be start-ups who need to get their idea off the ground.
Successful entrants will unlock financial support, office space and equipment as well as support and mentoring from some of the best minds in the business.
Sue Cuthbert, Business Development and Marketing Director of Office Outlet said: “We serve thousands of entrepreneurs every week, which has given us real insight into what businesses need to succeed at start-up phase.
“The £5,000 cash injection will really give those suffering on ‘FOMO Friday’ the impetus to take the plunge and live out their business dreams.”
She added she hoped to see some great ideas from people across the West Midlands.
The winners will be able to access strategy workshops, as well as invaluable advice from some really high profile CEOs across various sectors.
If successful, the project will grow into a national campaign next spring and the fund will be extended to support more talented individuals who need that crucial leg up to get going.
Judges and mentors of the scheme include Office Outlet CEO Chris Yates, Harold Tillman CBE Chairman of First Restaurant Group, Caroline Rush CEO of The British Fashion Council and Mark Sinnock CEO of Havas.
Anyone interested in submitting their business idea should visit www.officeoutletbif.com where entrants are encouraged to submit their business plan before the January 31.
Judging will take place early February and winners will be informed on February 15.
