Oxford Brookes students pitch business ideas in Dragons’ Den-style events

The aspiring business leaders presented their ideas to a panel of Oxfordshire business owners, including Oxford Brookes alumni, at the event hosted by Oxford Brookes Business School. The students received feedback on their presentation and likelihood of attracting future investment.

Charley Le Conte, a third year student on the Bsc International Hospitality course, said of the experience: “I cannot stress how much I enjoyed the Dragons’ Den experience. It was invaluable and the positive feedback we received by the Dragons has motivated me to pursue this as a career path upon graduation.”

Ross Jordan, Programme Lead for Business & Management at Oxford Brookes Business School, said: “For the students, this was an extremely valuable opportunity to obtain some expert opinion on their venture proposals and the way that they are presented.

“It was a fantastic experience for students, staff, and visiting entrepreneurs and investors, including the networking for everyone afterward. Our students did a great job and entertained and persuaded our guests of their investability.”

Students on the Hospitality & Tourism Management course also took part in their own separate pitching event, led by Dr Grzegorz Kapuscinski, of Oxford Brookes Business School. There were 270 students in total taking part in the pitching events. 

Mike Pooley, of Hayward Partnership, who was a panel member for the pitches, said: “It was a pleasure to be part of the session, and I really enjoyed the breadth and depth of the ideas put forward. My best wishes to all those students involved. Exercises like this are invaluable, you are being well set up for the future.”

Other local Oxfordshire companies that attended the events included Oxford BioMedica, Oxwash, Street Drone, and OSEP.