The IPO and the Pitch 2011 have joined forces in the small business pitching competition. Now in its fourth year the Pitch offers entrepreneurs from around Britain the opportunity to pitch their business to a panel of expert judges and a live audience for the chance to win £50,000 worth of business support and the title of Best New Business.

Since 2008 The Pitch has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs make invaluable business contacts and gain access to expert advice. Being involved with The Pitch is a unique opportunity for small company owners to gain presentation experience and get feedback on their business strategy. Entrants to The Pitch 2011 will benefit from free business insight from a judging panel that includes serial social entrepreneur Karen Darby and Carl Hopkins, star of The Secret Millionaire.

In 2011 The Pitch will hold heats during the summer in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast. The winners from each heat and a wildcard finalist chosen by the public will pitch for a final time at the grand final in central London on 12 November 2011 for the prize package.

Each national heat will incorporate a half-day conference featuring expert panel debates and keynote addresses from leading entrepreneurs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Enter the Pitch or be in the audience

If you think you and your business have what it take to impress the judges and benefit from the prizes, recognition and publicity that comes from taking part in The Pitch then choose your national heat and submit your entry online . Free audience tickets are also available.