Portadown-based social enterprise, Richmount Health Foods, has won the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council local heat of Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch, earning a place in the grand final later this month.
Founder Joe Garvey, who was also recognised as the Impact Award winner, was awarded £1,000 for the local heat win and will now be in with a chance of taking home a further £5,000 in investment for their business idea in the competition organised by Go Succeed.
Richmount Health Foods is a social enterprise with the goal of investing back into the local community. Joe had a “eureka” moment when he came up with his idea of converting waste from the local apple processing industry into a health food rich in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants which can be used as a food supplement.
To earn a place in the final, Joe made the ‘Ultimate Pitch’ to a panel of judges from across the business and civic communities.
Other winners included Sarah Fearon, whose business StoneLough Consultancy, was chosen for the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award and John Joe Nugent of Jopec Landscaping and Environmental Services, who won the Rising Star Award.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage said: “We’re thrilled to see such innovative and inspiring local businesses thriving in our community. Richmount Health Food’s success in the local heat of the Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch competition is a true reflection of the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit found within the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough.
“With apple processing and sustainability playing a strong role in our local community, this innovative idea of converting apple waste into a health food, will help to build a healthier, wealthier community for everyone. We wish Joe the very best in the grand final!”
Local heats are taking place in each of Northern Ireland’s 11 council areas every week throughout October and November. The local winners will progress to the final with an overall winner announced at a special event in November, coinciding with Global Entrepreneurship Week.
The public will also have their say as the 11 Ultimate Pitch finalists will also be in the running to win the ‘People’s Choice Award’ which gives them the chance to vote for their favourite pitch via Go Succeed’s social media channels.
In addition to an overall winner who will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award, special category prizes will include the Go Succeed Impact Award, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award and the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16-25 year-old entrepreneur.
As well as the financial award, winners will receive a package of support including marketing and other business support services.
The final will take place in Innovation Factory, Belfast on November 21.
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