Four companies will battle it out for a year’s worth of support as part of a council-led initiative aimed at promoting local business.

Taking part in Harrow Council’s ‘Business Den’, they will pitch their ideas to an expert panel at the civic centre on March 13.

This year’s finalists are M.A.D Naturally – a handmade, vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics range; nationwide gifting service Letterbox Brownies; educ8all Ltd – a virtual learning platform; and secure, weatherproof delivery box company iParcelBox.

Cllr Keith Ferry, who is responsible for business and regeneration at Harrow Council, said: “This isn’t just any business event, it’s the biggest and most popular business event in Harrow where people leave inspired and motivated to succeed.

“And that’s what we’re about – helping our business community flourish by putting them in direct contact with the experts.

“Every year the event exceeds expectations, with high quality entries for the competition and fantastic networking opportunities for business men and women.

“I wish our finalists the best of luck and look forward to meeting many of our local businesses and entrepreneurs.”

The winners of the competition will receive a year’s worth of business support, which could include training, access to working space or financial aid.

The event, which starts at 5.30pm, is open to anyone in the borough who wants to learn more about local entrepreneurialism, gain advice or share their business tips.

Tickets can be booked online via eventbrite.co.uk and searching for ‘Harrow Business Den’.