Member Article

Businesses prepare to enter BullRing to win life-changing support for rapid growth plans

Upcoming companies will hope to secure lifechanging opportunities by impressing three business giant “Bulls” this month when they enter the BullRing, Birmingham’s real-life answer to popular TV shows like Dragon’s Den and Shark Tank.

The sessions, co-ordinated by business development specialists Rockfine Group, will see exciting companies seeking investment pitch their ventures in front of a panel of leading figures in business during a free live and interactive online session on Thursday September 15.

Popular business showcase the BullRing allows three of the most promising start-ups around get five minutes each to pitch to three experienced investors for feedback and honing. Like BBC TV’s Dragon’s Den and US equivalent Shark Tank, the sessions see companies seeking investment pitch their ventures to the leaders, who offer their business nous to comment on the presentations and engage in a question-and-answer session.

The “Bulls” panel for September’s session will include Chris Deering, an ex-president at Sony Europe, Benjamin Torrero from Blackburn Capital and Victoria Sylvester, CEO of Acacia Training. Previous “Bulls” to take part include Spencer Crossley, a founding member of Warner Bros Entertainment, Poundland founder Steve Smith, Alan Barratt, the founder of protein brand Grenade.

Among the businesses to benefit is Paper Planes, a Bromsgrove-based direct mail marketing agency delivering targeted campaigns for leading brands which raised investment funding after appearing at the BullRing. Another beneficiary was London-based Live Tech Games, who also successfully raised funds after presenting to the Bulls.

Other companies which have seen their BullRing appearance become a springboard to investing opportunities include media production company Wotch.io from Coventry, Birmingham-based virtual assistant mobile hair and beauty app producers Niyo Group and sports data collection and analytics platform Sportable. Bulls Spencer Crossley and Chris Deering have gone on to become non-executive directors of companies which presented at the BullRing.

Rockfine Director B.D. Dalton, who hosts each BullRing, said: “This autumn promises to see the most exciting BullRing sessions to date, as we offer the unique introduction between highly promising companies and the first-class business leaders who will offer constructive feedback on their pitches.

“Not only does the BullRing provide great exposure for up-and-coming companies and great introductions to potentially make the deal of a lifetime, but the format also ensures the business founder focuses on driving a concise message ready for all audiences, from investors to clients and even potential business partners.

“As preparation, two weeks before the BullRing showcase the three founders attend a workshop to pitch their business idea to the other companies and our BullRing team. The BullRing team of experts share best practices from previous events, allowing the founders to take these messages on board for the final drafts.”

The BullRing team have had a higher than industry average of people get investment through their process and network, says B.D. He adds: “Our professional preparation process ensures the BullRing boasts a fantastic show-like atmosphere, proving to be entertaining as well and educational. The aim is to offer the opportunity to network and prepare for greater success.”

To join the September 15 session, book your free ticket via EventBrite. Further sessions will be held October 20 and a November date to be confirmed.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Chris Leggett .