Approved Food received over 6,000 votes in Pitch to Rich Competition
Yorkshire based Approved Food have reached the next stage of national competition Pitch to Rich – taking founder Dan Cluderay one step closer to delivering his ‘dream pitch’ to inspirational entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson.
Receiving a staggering 6,299 votes online from supporters in Yorkshire and across the UK, the business received the most support of any of the 500 companies competing in the Virgin Media Business Grow category according to unofficial “league tables” and is now one of only 50 shortlisted businesses being considered for the £250k prize fund.
Last night Dan and business partner Andy Needham received news that they were through to the next stage, and today the duo thanked the public for their ‘overwhelming support’.
Dan, who founded Approved food in 2008 said: “I’m absolutely delighted that we are included in the shortlist and extremely grateful for all of the public support we have received. It’s been quite overwhelming.
“I think most people know by now that Sir Richard Branson is a true inspiration to us, and to have the opportunity to deliver a pitch to him – showcasing what makes Approved Food so unique – is a real dream come true.
“Thank you so, so much to everyone who voted for us. We’re one step closer meeting the man himself, and one step closer to winning the funds that will help us continue to grow.”
Approved Food is a Sheffield based business which was established in 2008 by former software developer and market trader Dan Cluderay.
The entrepreneur specialises in selling surplus stock, as well as products that are nearing or past the best before date. Since it was founded seven years ago the business has saved in excess of 36 million items from going to landfill.
Now through to the next stage of the Virgin Media Business Pitch to Rich competition, Approved Food’s business submission will now be considered by a panel of judges before learning whether they have been included in the semi-finals.
By entering the competition Approved Food could receive part of the £1m prize fund to grow the business further.
The 30 semi-finalists, including 10 in the Grow category, will be announced on the 19th of May at which point online voting will be re-opened.
Website: www.approvedfood.co.uk/?afid=hd81j8
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