University of Bradford graduates in Branson's Pitch to Rich semi-finals
Two University of Bradford School of Management graduates have been named as one of ten semi-finalists in the national Pitch to Rich competition, run by Virgin Media Business, spearheaded by Sir Richard Branson, to find the UK¿s most innovative businesses.
Yorkshire start-up business SLPY has been selected from 979 businesses that entered in the start-up category. Co-founders Martin and Lisa Brailsford graduated in 1999 from the School of Management’s BSC Business and Management Studies programme - having met on the first day of university and subsequently getting married.
SLPY began trading in August 2014, when they launched their first product, ‘The Original Sleepy’, a wearable sleeping bag, at Boardmasters Festival. Since then the co-founders, Martin and Lisa Brailsford, have focused on brand development, sales and harnessing the latest manufacturing technology for new product designs launching this summer.
SLPY products are created for campers, festival goers, backpackers, students and outdoor adventurers.
Martin said: “We’re about having fun outdoors. SLPY make products that help people enjoy their outdoor lifestyle with a smile and a wink. Our products are quirky and innovative, yet functional.”
Public voting is now underway for the ten shortlisted businesses; the three with the most votes will become finalists, who will pitch their idea directly to Richard Branson and a panel of judges later this month.