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AdVantage Competition Finalists Announced: The Countdown to the Big Pitch Begins

Published on in Business Support & News

The BEST Growth Hub, in collaboration with Let’s Do Marketing, is excited to reveal the ten exceptional businesses that have made it to the finals of the AdVantage competition. Since its launch in September 2024, AdVantage has offered a transformative opportunity for Essex-based businesses to access expert marketing advice and bespoke support. With the application stage now closed and finalists selected, the spotlight shifts to the highly anticipated Big Pitch Event in January 2025, where the overall winner will secure a grand prize of £2,500 worth of tailored marketing support.

The AdVantage competition, launched on September 16, 2024, aims to empower new and scaling businesses across Essex by providing them with the marketing tools and strategies they need to thrive in today’s digital-first economy. Designed as a launchpad for sustainable growth, the program underscores the BEST Growth Hub and Let’s Do Marketing’s commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial talent that is abundant in Essex.

Meet the Finalists

After a highly competitive selection process, ten businesses from a wide range of industries have been chosen for their innovative ideas, growth potential, and unique contributions to their communities:

  1. Apputee (Colchester)
    An innovative app that consolidates vital resources for amputees and their families, helping them connect with supportive communities, charities, and businesses.
  2. RECAP Ltd (Braintree)
    A family-focused organisation providing training, education, advocacy, and research to improve the lives of children and families.
  3. Polished London Marble Ltd (Uttlesford)
    Specialists in sustainable cleaning, polishing, and restoration of luxury stone surfaces for high-end properties.
  4. Brentwood Brewing Company Ltd (Brentwood)
    An award-winning, family-run microbrewery that produces gluten-free beers and is exploring diabetic-friendly options to tap into new markets.
  5. Studio Libre (Chelmsford)
    A wellness studio and coffee shop offering restorative and dynamic fitness classes, from Pilates to sound baths, helping clients achieve balance in their lives.
  6. Refill Town Ltd (Chelmsford)
    A zero-waste shop promoting sustainability by encouraging customers to refill their containers with food and household essentials.
  7. IFCA CIO (Chelmsford)
    A community charity providing access to sports, recreational, and leisure facilities for residents of Ingatestone and Fryerning.
  8. Julie’s Cooking Academy (Uttlesford)
    An inclusive cooking academy offering hands-on culinary experiences to inspire confidence and independence in both children and adults.
  9. Mrs Strauss Tutoring (Southend)
    A tutoring agency specialising in personalised home-based education, serving Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas.
  10. Beautiful Healthy Home Ltd (Southend)
    An interior design business dedicated to creating beautiful, health-conscious spaces for residential and commercial clients.

 

What’s Next?

The journey for these finalists continued with a Pitch Skills Workshop held just this week, where they learned how to refine their presentations in preparation for the Big Pitch Event in January 2025. This event will determine which business will walk away with the grand prize of £2,500 in marketing support.

In addition to the grand prize, the other nine finalists will receive tailored marketing packages valued at £1,500 each, ensuring every finalist gains access to transformative marketing support. These packages, delivered by Let’s Do Marketing, are designed to address the specific needs of each business and may include:

  • Branding and strategy development
  • Website enhancements and SEO optimisation
  • Google product setup
  • Social media advertising campaigns
  • Email marketing implementation
  • Practical, hands-on support in key marketing areas

 

A Celebration of Essex’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

We’ve been thrilled by the overwhelming interest in the AdVantage competition,” said Stacey Pretty, Marketing Director at Let’s Do Marketing. “The talent and determination displayed by Essex’s business community have been truly inspiring. Selecting the finalists was no easy task, and we’re excited to help them refine their marketing strategies and achieve their goals. The Big Pitch Event promises to be an incredible showcase of innovation, and we look forward to celebrating their journeys.”

 

Follow the Journey

The AdVantage competition has already made a significant impact, spotlighting the resilience and creativity of Essex’s entrepreneurs. The final pitch event promises to be a pivotal moment for these businesses as they compete for the ultimate prize and the chance to take their marketing efforts to the next level.

Stay updated with the finalists’ progress and the competition by visiting www.bestgrowthhub.org.uk/grow-your-business/advantage-competition or keep an eye on our social media channels!

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