Cotswold Fayre Launches Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2017

Celebrating its fifth year, the initiative aims to help food entrepreneurs aged between 18-25-years-old with financial and mentoring support to make their new product innovation a success.

The winning applicant will be awarded £1,500 to help grow their company, as well as receive monthly mentoring sessions from chief executive of Cotswold Fayre, Paul Hargreaves, to discuss and develop their business plan and take things to the next level.

Paul said, “Starting a business myself 17 years ago, I completely appreciate that the hurdles to starting a business can be daunting. Our start-up support scheme is unique in that we are not only offering a monetary support but I am also mentoring the winner throughout the first year to help them to accelerate their business plan.”

The winner will also work with Cotswold Fayre’s in-house designer to develop a strong brand identity.

Last year’s winner, Olly Hiscocks, founder of Olly’s Olives said, “Winning Young Food and Drink Entrepreneur of the Year has been a massive milestone for the business. The prize money has been invaluable in pushing our new products forward and the award has helped to attract new stockists.

“Paul has been brilliant – he has such in-depth and extensive knowledge of the food industry, which I feel very lucky to have had a slice of! His mentoring has been extremely helpful and guided me in making the right decisions for the business.

“The next six months are going to be huge for Olly’s Olives with new products, new packaging, new flavours and even new offices - here comes the Olivelution!”

Applications for this year’s award open on 3rd April 2017 and close on 30th June 2017. The application form can be found at cotswoldfayre.co.uk