BUDDING entrepreneurs have just 60 seconds to pitch their ideas at a brainstorming event in November.

Those who score highest will see their company up and running within 48 hours. Once the best ideas are chosen, the rest of the crowd will split into teams to help turn the dream into reality.

Experts will also be on hand at Oxford Launch Weekend, at the Said Business School’s Launchpad, to help setting up a website, marketing and putting together a financial plan.

The weekend, from November 21 to 23, ends with finalists pitching their ideas back to judges.

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Prizes include the chance to meet investors, free mentoring sessions and legal advice.

The not-for-profit event is open to anyone who wants to start up on their own, with 100 people expected to sign up.

Organisers are particularly interested in ideas linked to financial technology, publishing, social enterprise, health/medical/biotech, education or automotive.

This will be the first in Oxford but similar events take place in London, Bath and Reading.

Marston resident Alex Goodall, who came up with the idea, runs business coaching firm Your Digital Ally.

Mr Goodall, 62, has 40 years’ experience in business management and also heads local group Oxford Internet Professionals.

He said: “Until now it’s been purely networking but I thought there was more we could do.

“We regularly get 20 to 30 people from the IT industry at monthly events, so why not put all that talent to good use?

“That’s when I came up with the idea of Oxford Launch Weekend.

“People will have 60 seconds to pitch, with no slides, flipcharts or powerpoint.

“All day Saturday and part of Sunday, teams will work on creating a website, firming up the business plan and going out on the streets of Oxford to canvass public opinion.

“It seems incredible that you can get a business going over a weekend but you can.”

Tickets, which include food and drink, cost £75 but there are discounts for early bookers and students.

More information is at oxfordlaunch.com

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