The Virgin Media Pioneers - Championing Undiscovered Talent
On Wednesday 25th September 2013 The Virgin Media Pioneers invited entrepreneurs from across the East Midlands into the pitching room with Dragons’ Den success story Andrew Harsley, and Virgin Media Pioneers Regional Ambassador, Michael Overton.
Lincoln based entrepreneur Gemma Kett, founder of Kitsch Bits was awarded first place for geek boutique business idea.
"I started the business because as a women with a strong interest in comics and geek culture, but also a passion for fashion, I could never find clothing and accessories that suited my personality. It's fantastic to have it affirmed that I am not the only one out there and clearly there is a market for geek and comic products for stylish adults"
Says Gemma Kett, founder of Kitsch Bits
Kitsch Bits sell a range of products from Dresses to Coasters all with 1 major things in common, they are all inspired by the geek and comic culture. Although Gemma started as a one woman business, making all of the products herself she has quickly had to adapt to growing demand and now works with other local businesses including a seamstress, artists and a t-shirt printer.
Participants in The Lincoln Pitch were invited to attend an exclusive awards ceremony and networking event at Lincoln University Business and Law building in the evening, featuring expert speakers Shaun Cole, Creative Director at Ideafuel and Phil Kelsey, Managing Director of Spiral Media. This is where the winner and runners up were announced, and prizes were given.
As first place winner, Gemma received £500, an iPad mini and mentoring services of a local businessman.
"I'm overwhelmed" said Gemma on receiving her award, "any cash injection during my first year is hugely appreciated, and it will go straight into more fabric! and perhaps the iPad mini could be passed on to my husband to keep him entertained while I work endless nights ignorning him and taking over the PC!"
Gemma added that the help of a mentor will be invaluable as that of a sounding board when making decisions about the future of Kitsch Bits, and building it into the empire that endless people agree it could be.