Forresters recently took part in the University of Chester’s Venture Programme, both as a sponsor and as part of the judging panel at the annual Venture Pitch event.
The programme provides an exciting opportunity for student and graduate entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to judges from a range of industries, in the hopes of winning a number of prizes to support their budding business ventures. This year, over 150 new businesses were created by students and graduates as part of Venture Pitch, a record number for the Venture Programme.
Among the winners this year were Lisa Handley and Leanne Peters, Criminology students who founded a community-focused business seeking to tackle loneliness through providing intentional spaces away from screens and foster real connections with others. Lisa and Leanne won a trade mark consultation with Forresters, as well as having fees covered for a UK trade mark application.
Lisa said:
“Our mission is to connect people, not just with one another, but with themselves. Whether walking through nature or exploring cityscapes, we aim to create space for meaningful connection, reflection, and belonging across all walks of life. The generous prize donated by Foresters will help us protect and establish our brand identity. Their guidance will ensure we can grow with confidence and move forward with our mission to connect communities through mindful, offline experiences.”
On the judging panel once again this year was Forresters Senior Associate David Murphy, who told us:
“I once again had the honour of being invited to join the judging panel for this year’s Venture Pitch event at Chester University. This year’s students presented a range of compelling business pitches, which demonstrated an awareness of key business principles. A number of the entrants had clearly invested significant time in devising and developing their brands, with an eye on securing trade mark protection for their fledgling businesses. Taking steps to register your company’s trade mark can be key to protecting your market position. In view of this, Forresters is delighted to award Lisa and Leanne this year’s trade mark consultation prize to help them in protecting their brand.”
It is a privilege to be involved with this valuable initiative supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, and we look forward to continuing to work with the University of Chester as part of the Venture Programme in years to come. Congratulations to all the deserving winners this year.
