The Pitch 2009 winner – Anthony Lau of Cyclehoop grabs startup pitching glory

As Global Entreprneuership Week gets off to a flying start, entrepreneurs, startups and judges including Doug Richard, Apprentice winner Tim Campbell and millionaire plumber Charlie Mullins gathered in London for the finals of The Pitch 2009.

In true Dragon’s Den style each of the six start-ups pitched live for three minutes and were subject to a seven minute grilling by the judges.

The companies pitching included David Webb and David Wright, co-founders of Super Mouth, an energy gum, Kenneth Cheung of BeeCycle, Craig Smith of The Printed Bag Shop, Tom Warrender of Get Set Schools, Anthony Lau of Cyclehoop and wildcard winner Jennifer Twigs of Lily Pins.

In a polished pitch, Anthony Lau was clear on his numbers, his projected profits and most importantly had significant orders from Councils around the UK.

All this appeared to impress the judges who had their questions answered adeptly and really had little to say to fluster the young entrepreneur.

Anthony recognised that many local authorities are promoting environmennal and health benefits of cycling, but cost-effective cycle parking is seriously lacking – Cyclehoop was born.

His innovative solution is an instant cycle rack that clips on to existing street furniture like sign-posts and street lamps.

A well spotted entrepreneurial opportunity and a well deserved win. Good call judges.