The technology start-up wowed the judges with its robust business plan and huge market potential, beating off stiff challenges from four other Northern entrepreneurs, to claim the The Pitch 2010 Northern title and claim their place in the grand final in London in November.
The Pitch, in association with directories business Yell, is a small business contest that gives entrepreneurs the chance to pitch their business to high-profile business experts, for the chance to win a prize package worth £50,000.
Nick Kitchin, representing Gaist, pitched the business confidently, and impressed the judges with his knowledge of the market, and his impressive projections about where the business could go. Gaist manages and publishes geographical information about transport infrastructure on Microsoft Bing Maps, allowing public sector organisations to collaborate on asset management in real time.
Winner: Nick Kitchin from Gaist
Selecting the winner, heat judge Carl Hopkins, probably best known for his appearance on Channel 4’s philantrophic business programme, said. “I was extremely impressed with Nick’s pitch and the potential Gaist has for being a really impressive business. It’s been fascinating to be involved with The Pitch and I’ll look forward to the grand final.” Hopkins was joined on the judging panel by fellow Secret Millionaire Jonathan Hick and Kim Eyre, head of sales at software company Sage.
Kitchin will now go through to the London final of the competition in November, where he’ll pitch again in front of a live audience for the chance to win £50,000 of business support services.
“We were up against some excellent businesses in Liverpool, so I am tremendously pleased to have won The Pitch North of England heat,” said Kitchin. “Meeting the judges was a great experience, and I’m glad they saw the potential that we see in the services Gaist has to offer.
“It’s been excellent taking part in the competition so far, and we’ll look forward to facing the other regional winners when the grand final comes around in November.”
The other finalists who took part in the event at Liverpool’s Modo bar.
- MyMall – A complete shopping network that claims to be the only network which combines all elements of online shopping under one virtual roof.
- Meltwater – A healthier and easier way to make everyone’s favourite treat, the chocolate fondue.
- Acadreamia – An affordable and environmentally friendly service that allows university students to rent textbooks.
- Philip Porter Guitars – Philip claims to have invented a revolutionary type of guitar that will eliminate amplification feedback.
