To be a disruptor is to create a product, service, or way of doing things which displaces the existing market leaders and eventually replaces them at the helm of the sector. Disruptors are generally entrepreneurs, outsiders, and idealists rather than industry insiders or market specialists.
Ahead of its official launch in January 2020, Plus X Brighton has launched a Disruptors competition seeking local entrepreneurial talent in the field of sustainable product design and the circular economy.
Mat Hunter, co-CEO at Plus X, said, “Plus X Brighton champions innovation and invention which is why we are launching our first ever Disruptors competition. Whether you think of yourself as an entrepreneur and innovator, or just an optimist and challenger, an artist, maker or simply a person with a good idea who wants to make a positive change, we are seeking Brighton’s most inventive minds!”
“With unthinkable volumes of waste from the products we use, we are looking for ideas that encourage us to behave in a more considered, circular and eco-friendly way. Have you got what it takes to disrupt the market with an innovative and revolutionary invention? If so, we want to hear from you.”
The winner will receive six months free desk space, access to workshops with specialist equipment and a placement on the Plus X mentorship programme at their state of the art new innovation hub located at Preston Barracks, Lewes Road to help develop their idea and bring it to market.
Four shortlisted candidates will be invited to present their sustainable idea to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style panel of specialists from the fields of product design, eco brands, tech and finance on 12th November.
The esteemed panel of judges includes Mat Hunter, co-CEO of Plus X, whose career started in Silicon Valley with IDEO, then Chief Design Officer at the Design Council followed by being MD at the Central Research Laboratory in London; Holly Price, University Relationships Manager from Santander; and Marija Butkovic, founder and CEO of Women of Wearables and co-founder of Kisha Smart Umbrella.
Jonathan Sharrock, Chief Executive of Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership, which contributed £7.7 million from their Local Growth Fund to help create Plus X Brighton, said:
“We are excited to be supporting this transformational project which will create a thriving space for local businesses, bringing tangible benefits to the local community and the city as a whole.”
Local business leaders are also invited to register to participate in the audience at the competition evening on November 12, which will be held at Unbarred Brewery & Tap Room with beer and pizza included!
Olga Hopton, MD of Plus X Brighton said, “As well as showcasing Brighton’s most innovative and inventive talent, this will be a fantastic networking opportunity for local business and partners, so we welcome as many audience guests as possible to attend”.
To enter the competition or to register to attend the Disruptors event, visit hub.plusx.space/disruptors
The closing date for competitor entries is 3rd November 2019.
