Applications are now open for this year’s Dragons’ Lair competition!
S3 pupils in North Lanarkshire are being challenged to think of innovative business ideas that will impress a team of business ‘Dragons’.
Our annual Dragon’s Lair competition to find young entrepreneurs is inviting S3 pupils to think of ideas for a new product or service. They will then attend an information session where advisors from Business Gateway Lanarkshire will help them write a business plan for their idea.
The business plans are scored, and the top six teams will be invited to the final where the pupils present their ideas to the panel of Dragons, who select a winner.
Information has been sent to all secondary schools in North Lanarkshire, and S3 pupils are being invited to discuss ideas with their teachers who can register up to two teams per school by the deadline of Thursday 16 September.
Councillor Alex McVey, Convener of the Enterprise and Fair Work Committee, said: “Dragons Lair provides our S3 pupils with an insight into setting up a business as a potential future career path. While the pupils are supported by their teachers and Business Gateway Advisors, the business idea and the planning come from the pupils.
“We have seen such a high standard of business plans and presentations over the years, which is down to the enthusiasm and commitment by those who apply, as well as the knowledge and confidence they gain throughout the process.”
Last year’s winners were Archie McManus and Gabriel Moody of Our Lady’s High in Cumbernauld who won over the judges with AC Genetics – a natural energy drink and skincare brand that focuses on individual skin type needs and simple, effective routines.
Dragons Lair is sponsored and supported by Tata Steel subsidiary, UKSE, which has been helping businesses in former steel areas with investments, loans and premises since 1975.
Scott Webb UKSE’s Regional Manager for Scotland, said: “UKSE has supported Dragons Lair for several years and we are delighted to be involved in again. It is a fantastic initiative that introduces young people to the world of business.
“Each year I never fail to be impressed by the ideas the pupils come up and the professionalism of their presentations. I would urge all teachers to encourage their S3 pupils to apply.”
This year’s Dragons Lair is also sponsored by The Pioneer Group at BioCity. The final will be held at its premises at Newhouse in November.
Schools can submit up to two teams and there can be a maximum of three pupils in each team. Teams must be registered by teachers by 12 noon on Thursday 16 September by emailing businesssupport@northlan.gov.uk.