Launchpad in Orbit – Business showcase and celebration event raises funds for local charity
Launchpad Southend’s business showcase and launch event, Launchpad in Orbit, was a celebration of entrepreneurialism and raised £655 for The One Love Project.
Over 120 entrepreneurs, local businesses and support services attended the event, which showcased and celebrated Launchpad and a prosperous future for Southend.
Several local businesses and support services donated a range of raffle prizes, ranging from golf shoes from Duca del Cosma, a business based at Launchpad, to a Cyber Escape Room session, from Essex Police.
Raffle ticket sales raised over £650, plus a box of food donations were also handed over to The One Love Project.
Those attending the event heard from Elaine McKechnie, Commercial Director from Oxford Innovation Space who Southend-on-Sea City Council employ to run Launchpad, Nick Brown, Head of Economic Inclusion at the council, and businesses based at Launchpad about how the centre is helping to realise the Council’s ambitions to boost local businesses, jobs and the economy, as well as provide a sustainable space and social value for the community.
Launchpad is already at over 50% occupancy with the forward thinking businesses based there bringing energy and expertise to the growing community, as well as a boost to the local economy and jobs.
Georgina Roffey, Centre Manager at Launchpad, said:
“Launchpad is all about collaboration and community so it was brilliant to be able to bring everyone together to celebrate the success so far of all the businesses that are based here.
“We take our commitment to boost local business and the economy very seriously.
“Thank you to everyone that attended and took part in the raffle for their commitment to a bright future for Southend and for helping to raise much needed funds for The One Love Project.”
Sharon Yavuz, Chair of the The One Love Project, said:
“The One Love Project is extremely grateful to Launchpad for donating the raffle proceeds.
“We have seen a rise in service users attending our sessions, with an average of 120 people coming through our doors for warm meals in the evening.
“The money raised by generous business representatives will be instrumental in making sure that our guests continue to receive a high standard of service from us.”
Cllr James Moyies, Deputy Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Investment, said:
“The success of Launchpad in Orbit reflects our commitment to nurturing a thriving business community in Southend.
“The impressive funds raised for The One Love Project are a testament to the generosity and collaborative spirit of our local entrepreneurs and businesses.
“Launchpad is a beacon of opportunity, driving economic growth and investment in our region. We look forward to the positive impact it will continue to have on our community.”
Growing businesses focussed on innovation including new technology, products or services can register their interest in being at the heart of this exciting collaborative, supportive workspace by emailing info@launchpadsouthend.co.uk or visit www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk for more.
