London School of Economics (LSE) Startup Competition

St Paul’s Catholic College was delighted to host the London School of Economics (LSE) Startup Competition last Friday; the first time the event has been held here at the school. Representatives from eight different startup companies, who were all alumni of LSE, came along to pitch their business ideas. Three judges or ‘dragons’ came to listen to the pitches, ask questions and give feedback. Twenty-four of our pupils from across Years 8 to 13 were chosen to take part in the event by watching and grilling the entrepreneurs themselves. The winning company, Harvest Value Chain, (who support farmers in Nigeria to harvest their crops more efficiently) was awarded a £6,000 grant from LSE and coaching for their business. Our students got to vote for the startup they thought was the best, which resulted in the drinks brand Dosha being awarded a £2000 grant from LSE. All the students who participated were amazing, and were praised for their exemplary behaviour and engagement with the entrepreneurs during the networking sessions. The opportunity for them to work with adults from the business world and be inspired to perhaps start up their own companies in the future was invaluable. We hope to see LSE back again next year!