Applications are now open for North Lanarkshire's Dragons' Lair competition, a school version of the hit TV business show Dragons' Den. Third-year pupils are invited to enter the annual event, run by North Lanarkshire Council to find young entrepreneurs.
Youngsters are being asked to think of ideas for a new product or service. They will then attend an information session where advisors from Business Gateway Lanarkshire will help them write a business plan for their idea.
How the competition works
Business plans will be scored, and the top six teams will be invited to the final, where pupils present their ideas to the panel of Dragons, who select a winner.
Information has been sent to all secondary schools in North Lanarkshire. S3 pupils are being invited to discuss ideas with their teachers, who can register up to two teams per school by the deadline of Thursday, September 16.
What the council says
Councillor Alex McVey, convener of the Enterprise and Fair Work Committee at North Lanarkshire Council, said: "Dragons Lair provides our S3 pupils with an insight into setting up a business as a potential future career path. While the pupils are supported by their teachers and Business Gateway Advisors, the business idea and the planning come from the pupils."
He added: "We have seen such a high standard of business plans and presentations over the years, which is down to the enthusiasm and commitment by those who apply, as well as the knowledge and confidence they gain throughout the process."
Previous winners and sponsors
Last year's winners were Archie McManus and Gabriel Moody of Our Lady's High in Cumbernauld, who won over the judges with AC Genetics – a natural energy drink and skincare brand that focuses on individual skin type needs and simple, effective routines.
Dragons Lair is sponsored and supported by Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE, which has been helping businesses in former steel areas with investments, loans and premises since 1975. Scott Webb, UKSE's regional manager for Scotland, said: "UKSE has supported Dragons Lair for several years and we are delighted to be involved again. It is a fantastic initiative that introduces young people to the world of business."
He added: "Each year I never fail to be impressed by the ideas the pupils come up and the professionalism of their presentations. I would urge all teachers to encourage their S3 pupils to apply."
This year's Dragons Lair is also sponsored by The Pioneer Group at BioCity. The final will be held at its premises at Newhouse in November.
Schools can submit up to two teams, with a maximum of three pupils in each team. Teams must be registered by teachers by noon on September 16 by emailing businesssupport@northlan.gov.uk.
