Five ways The Ultimate Pitch could transform your business

If you think you’ve got a winning business idea – now is the perfect time to prove it.

Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch, our incredible entrepreneurship competition is back for a second year – and it’s not just about winning up to £6,000 in funding.

This is your chance to gain exposure, build confidence, connect with experts, and shape the next chapter of your entrepreneurial journey.

Here are five ways entering The Ultimate Pitch could transform your business:

1. Get Investment to Power Your Growth

The overall winner of The Ultimate Pitch will receive up to £5,000 to invest in their business – a game-changing boost whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale. Add to this £1,000 for winners of local heats, and it is an investment that could make a huge difference.

With additional prizes recognising social impact, inclusive entrepreneurship, and the business communities youngest rising stars, there are more opportunities than ever to secure support.

2. Raise Your Profile

After you’ve made it through your local heat, finalists will each pitch live at Seamus Heaney HomePlace in front of a panel of esteemed judges and an engaged audience during Global Entrepreneurship Week.

It’s a unique platform to share your story, showcase your innovation, and gain valuable exposure for your business. With the contest featuring heavily on Go Succeed social channels, and gaining exposure in regional media, it’s an incredible platform to put you in front of potential customers and investors.

3. Learn to Pitch Like a Pro

All applicants will have access to masterclasses on how to deliver a winning pitch, helping you build skills that last well beyond the competition. Whether you make it to the final or not, you’ll walk away with sharper storytelling, stronger messaging, and greater confidence.

4. Connect with Your Local Enterprise Network

Regional heats will take place in all 11 council areas across Northern Ireland, giving you a chance to pitch locally, meet other entrepreneurs, and find out more about how you could tap into the wide range of business support offered by Go Succeed – from mentoring to grants and everything in between. You never know where it could lead!

5. Join a Growing Community of Innovators

Last year’s winner, Gemma McAllister of WearMatter, turned heads with her adaptive clothing brand – and credits The Ultimate Pitch with helping her grow her business and confidence in her brand. This year, it could be your turn. No matter your age, background, or industry, this competition is about celebrating big ideas and bold thinkers.

Applications are open until 18th August 2025, so whether you’re a startup dreamer, an established founder with a fresh idea, or a social enterprise ready to make a wider impact, now is the time to make your pitch.

Apply now and write yourself into Northern Ireland’s business success story by visiting https://go-succeed.com/theultimatepitch/