The Charterhouse Entrepreneurship Competition is launched today, as part of the School’s entrepreneurial programme. Local business, Aegis Data is supporting the project by mentoring pupils to help them to realise and achieve their business plans. Adrian Deslongrais, co-founder and COO of Aegis Data and former Charterhouse pupil is returning to the School to share his experiences on running a successful business and provide assistance to pupils enrolled on the programme to help maximise their business plans.
Adrian said: "As an Old Carthusian myself, there’s a very rewarding to be able to give something back to the community and helping students act on their entrepreneurial aspirations. It’s a really promising sign that students are starting to think about their future and starting a business is definitely a step in the right direction. But while thinking about a business idea is one thing, putting the plan into reality is often filled with a host of challenges, complexities and financial constraints."
"The Charterhouse programme is a great initiative to help students learn from successful entrepreneurs and gain invaluable insights on how to make a business work, as well as the pitfalls to avoid. With the mentorship and business professionals accessible for these students, it wouldn’t surprise me if in a few years we’ll see a new wave of innovative businesses originating right here, from Godalming."
Each team taking part in the competition will be allocated a mentor to help them develop their business plans, understand the intricacies of running a company, and getting to grip with the financials. The teams will then get the chance to pitch their business plans on 8 June, with the top four teams going to the final on 21 June. During the programme, pupils will also benefit from a number of insightful lectures and panel sessions covering a number of business related topics, including tech start-ups, strategies for growth and social media marketing.
Adrian concluded: "We’ve always had a long withstanding relationship with Charterhouse, and will continue to support all the hard work put in by both the students and the teachers at the school. Having the experience of running a successful business here in Godalming, will hopefully provide encouragement for the students to pursue their business dreams, and we are fully invested in offering our continued advice and support for them hopefully for many years to come."