The Big Venture Challenge is looking for the 25 most ambitious social entrepreneurs in England. They want exceptional people with radical ideas who have got what it takes to deliver social impact at scale.
Winners will each get a £25k grant and the chance to apply for an additional £150k of co-investment finance. In addition, winners also get access to an intensive programme of first class venture support, mentoring and connections designed to keep pace with the fastest growing social entrepreneurs.
Applicants will need to demonstrate: • A recent reduction in government funding for delivery of a public service that corresponds with the social impact the organisation delivers. • A clearly identified disadvantaged community that benefits from the work. This community may be geographical or a ‘community of interest’ • A business plan that factors on identifying, being able to absorb and ultimately show a return on at least £150k of debt or equity over the next 2-3 years. The match funding CANNOT be redeemed against any grant funding. • A clear intention to scale the impact of the work in line with this investment, in all likelihood replicating the existing service to new geographical areas within 3 years of the programme.
You can register your interest and find out more about how to apply at www.bigventurechallenge.com. Full applications open on 9 May 2011 and close on 30 June 2011.
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