Entrepreneurs in Northampton are being invited to pitch their businesses in a new Dragon’s Den-style competition at Vulcan Works.

The town centre business hub has launched Vulcan’s Den, a pitching contest that will give one winner a month of serviced office space at the popular Guildhall Road workspace.

Applicants will present their businesses to a judging panel including Vulcan Works Business Growth Manager Darren Smith, The Growth Hub’s Sam Hunter and Barclays Eagle Lab’s Owen Moran. Entrants will be asked to explain their business idea and why they would be a good fit for the innovation centre.

Vulcan Works says the competition has been designed to support early-stage and growing businesses looking for workspace and access to a wider business community.

The centre has become home to a growing number of start-ups and small businesses in Northampton, offering office space alongside workshops, networking events and business support sessions.

Demand for space at the hub has remained strong, with the main Guildhall Road building currently full and limited availability remaining in the neighbouring St John’s building.

As part of the prize, the winning business will also gain access to one-to-one business coaching sessions and community events during the month-long stay.

Centre manager Garrick Hurter said: “We are thrilled to be hosting the Vulcan’s Den contest, which is a fantastic way to get a well-earned trial run for one month in our much-loved business community.

“This opportunity is perfect for anyone who is considering office space or needs room to help build or grow their business without any outlay. It is a chance to access additional business support free of charge and make new connections too – all of which is immensely helpful to fledgling businesses.

“I look forward to welcoming all our entrants to Vulcan Works and seeing what the Vulcan’s Den has in store.”

The competition will take place at Vulcan Works on Tuesday 30 June. Entries close on 17 June and applicants can apply via the online form.

A £50 refundable deposit will be required from the winner for office keys.

Main Image: From left: Sam Hunter, Owen Moran and Darren Smith at Vulcan Works ahead of the launch of the Vulcan’s Den business pitching competition in Northampton.