Current Students and Staff

// University News

6 Oct 2017

Three Loughborough University London graduates shortlisted for national graduate enterprise competition

Three former students from Loughborough University London have been shortlisted to win a prestigious competition for graduate entrepreneurs, organised by the National Association of College and University Entrepreneurs (NACUE).

The competition is open to recent graduates with an inspiring start-up or business idea, and promises a reward of £10,000, a national title and priceless networking opportunities for the winner.  

Entries are now closed, and three students from Loughborough University London have made it through to the online public vote, the first of three stages in the competition.

Sport Business and Innovation student Diccon Loy has created Marathon Swims, focusing on the organisation and delivery of a new series of long distance swimming events.

Diccon's first UK event is due to take place in November at the London Aquatic Centre on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Since its announcement, the event has received overwhelming attention and sold out in October.  

Previous Dean's Award for Enterprise scholar, Sumai Bertrand has developed an industry-leading business idea, SPKTRA, which aims to revolutionise the nail polish industry by eradicating the use of harsh chemicals, sticky brushes and difficult-to-use applicators.

Rising entrepreneurs Diccon and Bertrand have taken part in a number of business development initiatives organised by Loughborough University London, including a £3,000 e-challenge for aspiring entrepreneurs and a student business accelerator programme

Soon-to-be graduate from the Institute for Sport Business, John Grant, has also been shortlisted for the competition with his restaurant venture, Two Fingers: a dynamic restaurant chain which celebrates the nation's love of fish fingers.

During his studies, John participated in the University's £100for100 competition, which rewarded aspiring entrepreneurs with £100 for a strong and persuasive business pitch.

The online public vote is open until midday on Wednesday 11th October, and the business idea with the highest number of digital votes will be fast-tracked to the final of the competition. To see a full list of candidates, click here.