In the news: Basildon's next big idea is off the ground

Basildon's Big Idea is an event that brings the community together to network while showcasing projects and ideas that need a boost to get going. For a small fee of £5, attendees enjoyed supper and voted for their favourite project. The person with the most votes won the pot along with expert support from Basildon Council's Economic Development team and Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) to bring their idea to life.

There were three entrepreneurs at the event, pitching ideas from an English speaking club for those in need, a service primarily for elderly and vulnerable people needing care at home, and a low carbon car battery solution.

After a close contest, the winner was announced with 11 votes as Stephen, whose idea was to provide a bespoke service to help the elderly, vulnerable and less able at home, using connected care technology and voice aided devices. He left with over £100 of crowdfunding and will meet with Basildon Council and CVS to help start the process and make his plan a reality.

Councillor Anthony Hedley, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Business Engagement said "This event is a great way to bring residents together to network and have a say on Basildon's next big idea, choosing what services they want to see more of in the borough. All three ideas pitched at the event were competitive and projects we hope to see more of in the future.

"Stephen's idea is a fantastic new initiative that helps those in need with a technology led approach. We are proud to be supporting Stephen in bringing his idea to life, offering advice and support to help it succeed."

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Published 15 December 2022