The BEST Growth Hub, in collaboration with Let’s Do Marketing, is thrilled to announce that the AdVantage competition is now closed, and the 10 finalists have been selected. These exceptional businesses, each showcasing innovation and ambition, will now advance to the next stage: a live pitch event in January 2025. At this event, they will compete for the grand prize of £2,500 worth of tailored marketing support, designed to propel their businesses to new heights.
Since its launch on September 16, 2024, the AdVantage competition has provided a unique platform for emerging and scaling businesses across Essex to access bespoke marketing consultancy and support. The competition is part of a wider effort to empower local entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.
Meet the Finalists
The ten finalists, hailing from diverse industries, are:
- Apputee (Colchester)
An innovative app that consolidates vital resources for amputees and their families, helping them connect with supportive communities, charities, and businesses. - RECAP Ltd (Braintree)
A family-focused organisation providing training, education, advocacy, and research to improve the lives of children and families. - Polished London Marble Ltd (Uttlesford)
Specialists in sustainable cleaning, polishing, and restoration of luxury stone surfaces for high-end properties. - 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. - 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. - Refill Town Ltd (Chelmsford)
A zero-waste shop promoting sustainability by encouraging customers to refill their containers with food and household essentials. - IFCA CIO (Chelmsford)
A community charity providing access to sports, recreational, and leisure facilities for residents of Ingatestone and Fryerning. - Julie’s Cooking Academy (Uttlesford)
An inclusive cooking academy offering hands-on culinary experiences to inspire confidence and independence in both children and adults. - Mrs Strauss Tutoring (Southend)
A tutoring agency specialising in personalised home-based education, serving Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas. - Beautiful Healthy Home Ltd (Southend)
An interior design business dedicated to creating beautiful, health-conscious spaces for residential and commercial clients.
The Road Ahead
The finalists have this week participated in a Pitch Skills Workshop to refine their presentations, ready to then present their business cases at the Big Pitch Event in January 2025. Nine finalists will secure tailored marketing packages worth £1,500 each, while one standout business will take home the top prize of £2,500 in marketing support.
Each winner will work closely with Let’s Do Marketing to develop customized strategies, including services such as SEO optimisation, website enhancements, branding, and social media advertising, among others.
Celebrating Local Innovation
“We have been thrilled by the amount of interest in the AdVantage competition, and choosing our finalists was a hard feat. The competition has highlighted the incredible talent and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Essex,” said Stacey Pretty, Marketing Director of Let’s Do Marketing. “We’re proud to support these businesses as they continue to grow, innovate, and contribute to the local economy.”
For more information about the AdVantage competition or to follow the journey of these inspiring finalists, visit www.bestgrowthhub.org.uk/grow-your-business/advantage-competition/ or contact info@bestgrowthhub.org.uk
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!