ASPIRING entrepreneurs only have until July 31 to apply for a support package worth £10,000 per head for 25 finalists.

The icreate entrepreneurs programme based at the Wilton Centre, near Redcar, aims to help budding businesses to fast-track their ideas into an investment ready pitch in six weeks.

Dr Mike Anderson, programme manager, said: “The programme is open to anyone looking for help and guidance when it comes to turning their ideas into a viable business, irrespective of the type or nature of their proposed enterprise.

“The scheme offers an intensive schedule of first-rate, free support and guidance for every aspect of creating a successful business from marketing and selling to funding, finance and legal issues.”

The programme starts on September 1 and runs each Monday for six weeks. Participants will also have use of a fully equipped office and space in the Centre’s Innovation Accelerator.

At the end of the programme, all participants will pitch their proposals to potential investors at events in the North-East and London.

See icreatefunding.com.