The finalists of an entrepreneurial competition have been decided, as they prepare to go head-to-head for the chance to win a year’s worth of business support.

Harrow Business Den 2018 received stacks of applications over the past few weeks and four exciting – and varied – business ideas have been selected from the pack.

The teams will now pitch their ideas in front of a panel of judges and experts at Harrow Civic Centre on March 14.

Here they will have to convince them that their proposal is worthy of the overall reward of a year’s worth of business support.

This could include a cash prize, mentoring, access to training courses, publicity or temporary use of premises.

Cllr Keith Ferry, responsible for business and planning at Harrow Council, said: “Harrow Business Den is one of my favourite events in the diary. Every year the business proposals never fail to impress me, and this year we have some strong finalists from a diverse range of businesses.

“The event itself is a fantastic opportunity for the local business community to come together.

“As soon as you walk into the room, you can feel the energy – everyone is bursting with passion, drive and determination.

“No matter where you are on your business journey, you will leave the event feeling inspired, motivated and ready for your next step in your business.”

Now in its fifth year, the Business Den continues to adapt and grow. This year there will be a special talk from Harrow’s Akshay Ruparelia who, at 19, is Britain’s ‘youngest millionaire’.

The owner of online estate agency Doorsteps.co.uk, he will be telling his story as well as offering tips on how to make your business stand out, make contacts and utilise available support.

Previous winners of the competition 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.”

The Harrow Times will be featuring the finalists of the competition in the run up to the big day.

The event takes place between 5.30pm and 9pm on March 14. Tickets can be booked at www.harrow.gov.uk/businessden or visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Harrow Business Den’.