After much deliberation I decided to take the plunge, I applied to take part in the ‘Bull Pit’ competition at last year’s Nottingham Business Expo to present my food allergy training and education business. Who would be on the panel? What would they ask? Would they see the potential for my business as I did? Would they believe in me?
I soon realised I had nothing to lose and only great possibilities to gain from entering the competition.
Pitching my business was a fantastic experience that I would highly recommend to all SMEs and entrepreneurs. The panel provided amazing feedback and advice which was invaluable, they gave me so much to think about and potential ways to take my business forward. It really was a great privilege to have had this opportunity.
To my surprise I actually won the competition, which was a real added bonus! Winning meant so much as the panel saw my passion and drive and that I had an existing business proposition to take forwards to develop further.
I met with Simon Gray, chief executive of Nottingham Means Business (and one of the judges) after the competition, he gave me further advice and helped me to take my ideas to the next level, which I am truly grateful for. Simon inspired me to have the vision of making Nottingham a leading city in providing allergy information and in making it a safe and welcoming city for all citizens and visitors with special dietary requirements.
It was fantastic and much appreciated to receive 12 months honorary membership to Nottingham Means Business. This allowed me to meet many businesses that I may not necessarily have come into contact with, I have had the pleasure to meet some lovely people and businesses whilst widening my knowledge through connections made.
Since being part of the ‘Bull Pit’ Food Freedom has grown and has a much wider reach. I have received fantastic publicity from winning, which has given me the opportunity to share my knowledge and expertise of food allergies and intolerance with businesses and help them fully comply with EU legislation.
We have got some very exciting times ahead with a couple of new projects soon to launch – so watch this space and I really hope you can be part of it too!
Nicky Gray
Food Freedom Ltd