In a major upcoming business event, “Pitch It to Clinch It®” (PITCI®) will showcase the talent and innovation of African and Caribbean entrepreneurs. Ten selected contestants will present their business ideas to a panel of five influential investors, each a seasoned expert in their field. Set to take place in London, this Dragons’ Den-style competition promises not only the potential for financial backing but also mentorship from industry leaders dedicated to helping businesses flourish.
Among the distinguished panellists is Levi Roots, a prominent entrepreneur known for his success on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den, where he famously launched his Reggae Reggae Sauce brand. Roots, who has grown his product line into a household name, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective as someone who has successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape. His presence on the panel offers contestants invaluable insights into scaling their ventures and achieving commercial success.
Joining Roots on the panel is Martin Nwangwa, another esteemed business leader with over 17 years of experience in corporate IT, followed by several years running his own company in the Health and Wellness industry. Nwangwa’s diverse career has equipped him with a deep understanding of leadership, business management, and innovation. He is known for bringing fresh perspectives to the table and enjoys championing ideas that challenge conventional thinking. With a passion for learning about different cultures and extensive travel experience, Nwangwa brings a global outlook to the panel, making him an ideal mentor for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark on the world stage.
PITCI® offers a unique opportunity exclusively for entrepreneurs of African and Caribbean heritage, inviting both emerging startups and established businesses to pitch innovative ideas. The panel, composed of investors with expertise across sectors like technology, finance, health, and retail, is committed not only to investing but also to providing long-term mentorship to help participants navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.
The competition aligns with the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS), which will take place in London from November 21-23, 2024. Organised by HenleyCaribbean Sustainable Ventures, ACSIS will bring together UK-based entrepreneurs with ties to Africa and the Caribbean, under the theme “Leveraging the African, Caribbean and UK Business Opportunities: Investing in a Sustainable Future.” The summit will focus on four key sectors: Agriculture & Agri-Business, Climate Change & Renewable Energy, ICT, Digital Economy & Cybersecurity, and Tourism.
The final day of ACSIS will see the prestigious ACSIS Sustainability Awards 2024 presented, celebrating businesses that demonstrate exceptional contributions to sustainability, particularly within the African and Caribbean regions. These awards, closely tied to the goals of PITCI®, highlight the growing importance of sustainable development in business today. Companies that showcase innovative solutions addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource management will gain further recognition, adding to the event’s prestige.
For the entrepreneurs selected to pitch at PITCI®, the rewards extend far beyond potential financial backing. They will have the opportunity to gain exposure to investors like Levi Roots and Martin Nwangwa, whose combined expertise and mentorship will provide strategic guidance to help them navigate the complexities of the business world. The competition offers a springboard to forge lasting connections with investors, industry leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs.
In a landscape where visibility and support are often limited for minority entrepreneurs, Pitch It to Clinch It® offers a rare and transformative opportunity for African and Caribbean innovators to gain the backing they need to scale their ventures. For those with bold ideas and the drive to bring them to life, this event could be the key to unlocking their full potential.
