Businesses are being encouraged to enter a competition which could see them win a year’s worth of support.

Applications for the 2018 Harrow Business Den are now open and anyone, “no matter where they are on their business journey”, can put their name forward.

Now in its fifth year, the Business Den sees competitors stand before a fierce panel of judges and pitch their ideas.

The reward of a year’s worth of business support could include a cash prize, mentoring, access to training courses, publicity and temporary use of premises.

Cllr Keith Ferry, responsible for business and planning at Harrow Council, said: “If you’ve got a business idea that you believe in, but need some expert advice to take it to the next level, enter the competition and see where it can take you.

“We know running your own business can be daunting, and you need all the help you can get and this is what the competition offers – vital business support.

“This is its fifth year, and the success stories from previous winners just go to show how beneficial it can be. So if you’ve got a great business idea, prove it and win it.”

Previous winners include Donna Williams from A Slice of Nice, Matteo Bergaminni from Shout Out UK and Conan Sammon from London Bin Cleaning Company.

Conan explained how the experience and reward provided him with a solid platform, which has enabled his business to go from strength to strength.

He said: “Winning the Harrow Business Den competition has been great. Business is booming, we’ve added to our growing fleet of mobile pressure washing vans, moved into a new office in Hatch End and exceeded our predicted level of sales for 2017.

“This year will be even better as I plan to purchase two competing companies and vastly grow the amount of domestic customers we serve.

“I’m so grateful for all the support I have received. If you’re lucky enough to win the event, just be yourself, be genuine and make the most from every opportunity.”

Applications are open until 6pm on February 12, with the event taking place in March. Search ‘Harrow Business Den’ to download an application form.