Transform your Business Idea into Reality with a £1,000 Grant

Living Magazines Dacorums Den

Budding entrepreneurs have the chance to get a head start in business by pitching for up to a £1,000 grant from Dacorum’s Den.

The Dacorum Borough Council initiative, based on the popular TV series Dragons’ Den, is a grant giving initiative to help local small businesses develop and grow.

Now in its eleventh year, Dacorum’s Den has granted over £100,000 to over 80 local businesses, creating additional jobs in the area. This funding comes from generous local businesses, including this year’s sponsors: Sopra Steria, Beeches Group and Sureserve Compliance Central. Additionally, winners will also receive free expert business coaching provided by local marketing agency, Bloom with BB and sales coach, Sales Geek and free annual membership to Connect Dacorum Networking Group.

Dacorum’s Den is aimed at individuals and businesses who:

  • Employ fewer than 10 employees and have a turnover of less than £500,000.
  • Have a great business idea.
  • Are eager to grow their business in Dacorum.

The initiative offers individuals a helping hand by turning their business ideas into a reality, while also serving as an excellent resource for existing small businesses to evolve and adapt their business models, paving the way for future growth.

Cllr England, Leader of Dacorum Borough Council, and Place Portfolio Holder said: ‘Dacorum’s Den is an excellent opportunity for anyone with a great business idea to get on the first step of the business ladder and bring their concept into reality. Funding can be a real barrier to business growth or for new start-ups to gain momentum, so a cash injection can be the helping hand to unlocking future potential.

‘It will be fascinating to meet new entrepreneurs, learn about their fledgling businesses, and see the progress that those successful businesses make on their entrepreneurial journey with a funding award.

‘I look forward to contributing to the continued success of Dacorum’s Den, which is one of several innovative initiatives that Dacorum Borough Council offers to support local businesses to help them grow and thrive.’

Applications are open until midday on Wednesday 2 April 2025. Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity to present their ideas to a judging panel, led by the Leader of Dacorum Borough Council and Place Portfolio Holder, Councillor Adrian England. The panel will evaluate their pitches to determine if a grant will be awarded.

For further details (including eligibility criteria) and to apply, please visit: www.dacorum.gov.uk/dacorumsden or email: business@dacorum.gov.uk.