Business students pitch to local entrepreneurs at The Tiger’s Pen

The Tiger’s Pen is a unique opportunity for students to practise their pitches and get valuable feedback from local business leaders about their business ideas.

The concept was founded by Sonny Cutting from the Sussex Business Show, who each year dedicates his time to hosting the event with the School of Business and Law.

This year, four teams of students pitched their business ideas to our team of local ‘tigers’ below:

• Dean Hodges – Gold Pebble
• Flo Powell – Midnight Communications
• Martin Williams – Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors
• Rachael Dines – Shake It Up Creative
• Matt Turner – Creative Group
• Nigel Lambe – Sussex Innovation Centre
• Stuart Noakes – Carpenter Box

Our tigers were clear about what they were looking for, with Rachael telling students: “What I’d love to see today is some passion.”

“What I’m looking for is how you’re going to get your product to market,” said Flo. “Slow down, take it easy and relax.”

Dean also offered his advice: “Just be yourself.”

Our tigers’ varied areas of expertise, from marketing and PR, to operations and finances, meant that our students walked away with valuable feedback on all aspects of their business plans.

The Tiger’s Pen is part of a module on our Business Management BSc and International Business Management BSc degrees.

Winners Organic Kitchen with Sonny Cutting

Congratulations to the winning best pitch team – Organic Kitchen! As winners, they’ve won the opportunity to pitch for real investment at the upcoming Sussex Business Show on 28 September.

Mamina UK, who were awarded best concept

And well done to Mamina UK who were awarded best concept.

We’d also like to say an enormous thank you to our seven tigers for giving our students their valuable advice and feedback.

Book your place at the Sussex Business Show.

All images taken by Victoria Dawe