The BEST Growth Hub, in collaboration with Let’s Do Marketing, is thrilled to announce that the AdVantage competition is now closed, and the 10 finalists have been selected. These exceptional businesses, each showcasing innovation and ambition, will now advance to the next stage: a live pitch event in January 2025. At this event, they will compete for the grand prize of £2,500 worth of tailored marketing support, designed to propel their businesses to new heights.
Since its launch on September 16, 2024, the AdVantage competition has provided a unique platform for emerging and scaling businesses across Essex to access bespoke marketing consultancy and support. The competition is part of a wider effort to empower local entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.
Meet the Finalists
The ten finalists, hailing from diverse industries, are:
1. Apputee (Colchester) – An innovative app designed to support amputees and their families by connecting them with essential resources and communities.
2. RECAP Ltd (Braintree) – A family-focused organisation offering training, education, advocacy, and research to support children and families.
3. Polished London Marble Ltd (Uttlesford) – Specialists in sustainable cleaning, polishing, and renovation of luxury stone surfaces.
4. Brentwood Brewing Company Ltd (Brentwood) – An award-winning, family-run microbrewery expanding into new markets with gluten-free and diabetic-friendly beer offerings.
5. Studio Libre (Chelmsford) – A wellness studio and coffee shop providing dynamic and restorative fitness classes to help clients find balance in their lives.
6. Refill Town Ltd (Chelmsford) – A zero-waste shop promoting sustainable living by offering unpackaged food and household essentials.
7. IFCA CIO (Chelmsford) – A community-focused charity enhancing recreational and leisure facilities for the residents of Ingatestone and Fryerning.
8. Julie’s Cooking Academy (Uttlesford) – A cooking academy inspiring confidence and independence through inclusive, hands-on culinary experiences.
9. Mrs Strauss Tutoring (Southend) – A growing tutoring agency specialising in personalised, home-based education in Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas.
10. Beautiful Healthy Home Ltd (Southend) – An interior design business creating beautiful, health-focused spaces for residential and commercial clients.
The Road Ahead
The finalists have this week participated in a Pitch Skills Workshop to refine their presentations, ready to then present their business cases at the Big Pitch Event in January 2025. Nine finalists will secure tailored marketing packages worth £1,500 each, while one standout business will take home the top prize of £2,500 in marketing support.
Each winner will work closely with Let’s Do Marketing to develop customized strategies, including services such as SEO optimisation, website enhancements, branding, and social media advertising, among others.
Celebrating Local Innovation
“We have been thrilled by the amount of interest in the AdVantage competition, and choosing our finalists was a hard feat. The competition has highlighted the incredible talent and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Essex,” said Stacey Pretty, Marketing Director of Let’s Do Marketing. “We’re proud to support these businesses as they continue to grow, innovate, and contribute to the local economy.”
