After receiving over 120 submissions for the Birmingham Black Business Show’s (BBBS) Launchpad Competition, the shortlist of ten semi-finalists came together at international law firm Trowers & Hamlins to compete for four coveted positions to pitch their business to a live audience at the Birmingham NEC this June.
Supported by Lloyds Banking Group, the annual pitch competition brings together up and coming entrepreneurs from across the region in a search for the brightest talent among Black-owned startups and small businesses.
The scale of submissions this year demonstrates the significant number of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in the West Midlands region (some pitchers from Manchester, should this be added in) seeking investment and funding to fuel their growth.
The shortlisted businesses represented diverse sectors, including haircare and beauty, fitness, manufacturing, consultancy, and food and beverage. Each semi-finalist had four minutes to pitch their business to the judging panel, receiving valuable feedback and guidance on how to develop their brand messaging.
After careful deliberation, the judging panel, David Atkinson, Yetunde Dania, Sophie Marie Bennett, and Kwame Boateng, chose the four finalists who will progress to the next stage:
- Jared Spencer, Founder of RIDDIM Snacks, a producer of plant-based and allergen friendly snacks inspired by the Caribbean.
- Reah Coo, Founder of Inspire 321 Ltd, an advocacy leader guiding parents, carers, and professionals to support children with special educational needs.
- Paula Francis, Co-Founder of SuperFoodLx Ltd, a haircare and wellness brand supporting women experiencing hair loss.
- Raphael Ogunrinde, Founder of United Canning, a beverage contract packing company, shaping a more inclusive and sustainable beverage sector.
Over the next month, these finalists will receive guidance and support before presenting their businesses to a live audience on the Main Stage at the upcoming BBBS, taking place on Saturday 14th June at the Birmingham NEC.
The winner of this year’s Launchpad Competition will receive a number of business development resources and strategic advice to help them transform and scale their venture.
Dr Raphael Sofoluke, Entrepreneur, Author, Founder & CEO of - Birmingham Black Business Show, said:
“Throughout the years of running The Launchpad Competition, we’ve been consistently impressed by the innovation and creativity these business owners demonstrate. We’re proud to create a platform where Black entrepreneurs receive recognition for their substantial contributions to the UK economy, while also providing them with concrete opportunities to accelerate their growth and realise their full potential.”
David Atkinson, Regional Director and UK Head of Manufacturing, Lloyds Banking Group, said:
“The Black Business Show Launchpad Competition, backed by Lloyds Bank, is more than a platform – it’s a powerful catalyst for change and improved representation. It uplifts untapped black talent, opens doors to opportunity, and shines a spotlight on the brilliance of Black entrepreneurs who are all too often overlooked. It’s where ambition meets learning, and where diverse innovation is not just celebrated – it’s accelerated.”
Yetunde Dania, Partner and Head of the Birmingham Office at Trowers, said:
"It was an honour to host the Launchpad judging panel at our Birmingham office. There was an astounding level of passion and talent amongst all the pitching entrepreneurs.
We have been supporting the BBBS for a few years now and we are passionate about nurturing local talent, supporting entrepreneurs and Black-owned businesses. Being a part of the Launchpad Competition has been a great opportunity and demonstrates our commitment.
We look forward to attending the BBBS and the Launchpad Competition final, where the winner will be announced."
The 2024 Launchpad Winner, Kwame Boateng, Founder & CEO of Ingrained Oil Limited, joined the judging panel this year to share lessons from his experience the prior year. He commented:
“Serving as a judge was truly inspiring. The passion, innovation, and resilience of the semi-finalists were remarkable. I’m looking forward to seeing the finalists take the stage in June."
The BBBS has been created to inspire and connect Black business owners and professionals across the West Midlands and beyond. With over 4000 face-to-face attendees, more than 60 speakers and over 100 exhibition stands, the BBBS is an extraordinary opportunity to make meaningful connections and continue building an environment where Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs can thrive together.
For more information and to book your tickets, visit: https://www.birminghamblackbusinessshow.co.uk/lloyds-launchpad/
