UK Black Business Show Launchpad announces four finalists

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce was invited to the UK Black Business Show Launchpad judging day, hosted by Lloyds Bank.

The Launchpad has been a part of the programme at the UK Black Business Show since its inception in 2017.

It 's been a platform for Black-led businesses to showcase their products and services to attendees at the show, gain confidence in what they 're doing and raise awareness of their brands.

This year, with the support of Lloyds Bank, the show organisers are taking it up a notch. By pitching, the contenders are in with a chance of winning some tangible benefits that will uplift their business.

On Thursday following a welcome from Michael Adeniya, COO of the UK Black Business show and host David Atkinson, regional director for SME and Manufacturing for Lloyds Bank, the ten participants pitched to the panel with the chance to be in the final four, who will present live at the Birmingham show at the NEC on 17 June.

The four contenders will also get a professional coaching session to finesse their pitch from judge and award-winning personal brand strategist Dr Tu Powell.

Jayne Hume, GBCC relationship manager who represented the Chamber, said: “It was a privilege to be invited to hear the pitches from ten inspiring local businesses, the standard was very high, and scores were close so not an easy task for the judges.

“My Chamber colleagues and I are very much looking forward to supporting the event and continuing the strong relationship we have built with Michael and his team. ”

Michael Adeniya, COO UK Black Business Show, added: “The day was awesome and a well done to everyone that presented, the judges and the great audience of supporters, from 120 applicants we saw ten great businesses and now have the final 4 to pitch on the day. ”

The Birmingham Black Business Show has been created to inspire and connect black business owners and professionals.

Through exhibits, deep-dive workshops, interactive panels, and seminars, delivered by industry pioneers, this event will enable personal, professional and corporate development.

The show will highlight the achievements and contributions Black businesses have made to the economy. Attendees will gain cutting-edge insight and advice in entrepreneurship, leadership, soft skills and cultural development from some of the UK 's leading Black business owners.

Find out more and use code BCOC23 to get a free ticket. Click here for more information.

*The code is valid on standard day passes, is capped at 100 uses & expires 21 May 2023.

Pictured (L-R): Four finalists with the judges- David Atkinson, Tru Powell, Adefubke Larigo, Kareen Griffiths, Eugene Patterosn, Junior Makame, Denise Myers and Ashley Bancroft