Blenheim Launches Search for New Business Entrepreneurs

Working in partnership with the FAB Accelerator team, the Oxfordshire estate has put together its own programme designed to support locally-based firms.

The opportunity is open to any business which is less than two years old or has fewer than five employees, is based within 20 miles of Blenheim, and can provide something which could be stocked in their shops.

Applications will need to be submitted by the 10th of May and the successful candidates will be notified by 24th May.

They will then have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to Blenheim’s senior management team over the summer.

After undergoing presentation training, they will take part in a final pitch on 26th June when the winning applicant will be selected and awarded with a contract to supply their products to the Estate’s retail outlets.

In addition to the contract, the winner will also receive ongoing tips and advice from members of the Blenheim management team.

“As part of our stated goal to triple our economic contribution to the local community within 10 years Blenheim is committed to providing start-up businesses with support and a busy marketplace to showcase their products,” said Blenheim CEO Dominic Hare.

“By using the expertise and experience of the FAB Accelerator team we’ve been able to set up our own programme to identify, support and develop exciting new businesses in the area,” he added.

Last year’s competition attracted more than 50 entrants of which eight went through to the final pitching process.

Neve’s Bees, which produces 100% natural beeswax skincare products, and designer and artist Kathryn Croxson, who creates a range of clothing accessories and homeware, were both selected and had their products go on sale at Blenheim Palace.

Julie Macken, Neves Bees says: “I would highly recommend entering the Blenheim Start-up Competition: the exposure we have gained from being in the shop has increased our brand awareness many-fold and the kudos of being associated with such a ‘high-end’ outlet has opened many doors.

“In addition to this, the extra revenue from selling in a large outlet has enabled us to invest in our new gift packaging, allowing us to enter a far bigger marketplace. We are now developing a range of Neve’s Bees products using Cotswold Lavender with exclusive designs for Blenheim Palace which we hope will secure a longer-term future for us with Blenheim.”

The brainchild of Fabulous Bakin’ Boys’ founder Gary Frank, FAB was Oxford’s first accelerator programme for ambitious entrepreneurs and startups.

• Anyone interested in taking part in the Blenheim Accelerator competition can find out full details and enter online at https://www.blenheim.org/startup