Shortlisted applicants of our Kick Start grants have been pitching their businesses to our panel of dragons last week.
Before we announce the winners we'd like to introduce our final dragon, say hello to Asy Ho, NatWest Local Enterprise Manager, who, along with his fellow dragons, will be deliberating and deciding the fate of our applicants.
Asy started his career with NatWest 17 years ago working in branch banking. 10 years ago, he moved to the business banking side of the bank and has been in his current role as a Local Enterprise Manager for the last seven years. In his role, he focuses on all the ways NatWest can help and support business owners and entrepreneurs in particular start-up businesses.
Why did you agree to be a Dragon?
"I have been very lucky to work with many entrepreneurs through our Accelerator Hubs providing support and advice on all aspects of business and finance. This has been one of the aspects that I enjoy the most about my job and is why I was really pleased to be asked to be involved in the BIPC Northants Kick Start Dragons’ Den. It’s always fantastic to hear from new entrepreneurs about their great ideas and to be able to offer support and advice alongside the excellent work the BIPC do"
What will you be looking for?
"Business owners who have a solid and clear business plan, who know their numbers and are realistic with their financial plans. I want to see some exciting, fresh ideas and applicants who are passionate about taking their first steps in business."
Follow Asy on LinkedIn here.