Sparklers sought for social entrepreneur contest

Homeless entrepreneurs with a business idea that can take them into employment and independent living are being sought to take part in Sparklers 2010.

Sparklers provide opportunities for homeless entrepreneurs to develop both new business ideas and the skills to run their own businesses.

Sparklers 2010 was launched by founders John Montague, CEO of the TREES group, and Nigel Kershaw, Chair of Big Issue Invest.

Davina Roberts, a winning Sparkler from 2009, said that she couldn't emphasise enough the importance of anyone with a good business idea having the courage to take it forward to the panel.

Since winning backing to set up Punch and Judy; a social enterprise creating and selling healthy juices in the form of Liquid Foods 'an alternative concept for those who wish to gain nutrition in liquid forms', Davina's enterprise has moved from strength to strength, seeing her establish a nine-week training scheme for other homeless people to teach them about attitude, health and safety, food hygiene, undertake work experience in high-profile restaurants, and ultimately find work.

Davina, aged 31, had been homeless for seven years before she sought the backing.

'My life has changed so much over the past year that it can be overwhelming,' she said. 'The faith and support the Sparklers team, particularly Nigel Kershaw had in me, was huge. He was a fantastic mentor. I would say to anyone thinking about it: what do you have to lose? You are homeless, you have nothing to risk!'

'I am now working with other homeless people to help them make the transition from being homeless to being someone with a job and a home and a reason. I know it's not easy, and that's why I'm a good person to advocate this- I have been there and I have done it, so I know how hard it can be,' she added.

Founder John Montague said: 'Sparklers provides vital funding and support to homeless entrepreneurs with passion and drive to develop, test, market and launch their own business ideas. Sparklers unlocks the potential in these entrepreneurs, not only to help themselves but to also help others and their community.'

Nigel Kershaw added, 'Sparklers is a crucial stepping stone in helping homeless entrepreneurs achieve their business aspirations.'

Entrants to Sparklers 2010 need to submit their applications to sparklers@sparkchallenge.org.uk by 5pm on 24th September.