What an Andy number Start-ups given ’once in a lifetime’ chance with Prince
THE Duke of York’s private secretary is urging entrepreneurs to pitch him during a looming visit but doubts he’ll return for the Commonwealth Games.
An advance party for Prince Andrew (pictured) toured Bond University yesterday where he is to host a regional leg of his global start-up contest Pitch@Palace in September.
His private secretary Amanda Thirsk was joined for the Bond site visit by the Prince’s Sydney-based former sister-in-law Jane Ferguson, who is co-ordinating the Australian part of the contest.
Ms Thirsk said the Pitch@Palace contest was a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurs.
Local applicants are competing for a trip to London and during Prince Andrew’s visit will pitch to him directly and connect with potential investors expected at the function. “They should all apply,” Ms Thirsk said, describing Bond University as an “amazing, incredible” facility after her brief tour. Asked if Prince Andrew was likely to join Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles as confirmed attendees for the Commonwealth Games, she said: “No idea, I think April is going to be very busy.” Ms Ferguson, the older sister of Prince Andrew’s ex-wife Sarah ‘Fergie’ Ferguson, said the contest was a “great opportunity” to connect start-ups with some major players. Bond vice-chancellor Tim Brailsford said it was a “once in a lifetime” chance for local start-ups to access a Royal and industry heavyweights. “Where else in one location would you have the opportunity to pitch to go London for a global competition but also engage industry leaders and potential investors?” The competition is open to startups under five years old.