McDonald’s to host open evening for Startup! Stamford contest

McDonald’s in Ryhall Road, Stamford, will host an open evening for the Startup! Stamford contest from 7pm on Monday, November 16.

People aged 16 to 23 from within a 12-mile radius of Stamford are invited to come along, speak to organiser Martin Fox and find out more about the competition. And Mercury readers will get a free drink if they take the coupon printed in the November 6 edition with them.

McDonald’s franchisee Matt Jarrett said he was “blown away” by Mr Fox’s presentation and was happy to lend his support.

He added: “I’m really pleased that we have got involved with this. I see a big part of my role as doing as much as we can in the community.”

Matt will also join the team of mentors that help contestants in the later stages of the competition.

He said: “Since I’ve been in business I’ve had to teach myself. It’s a great position to be in, to be able to help choose the winner and provide some inspiration and advice so they can get their idea into reality.”

The competition is now in its second year. The winner will receive a £5,000 grant, the support of a team of mentors and networking opportunities. Entrants will have to submit a basic business idea. Those who go through to the business plan stage will get the support of a mentor from the local business community.

Last year’s winner Cameron Jarvis has now launched two IT businesses.

For more visit www.stamford.youth-startup.org.uk.