Portrush-based business makes the ‘Ultimate Pitch’ in local heat

Local Portrush company 6D-Dementia Ltd has won the Causeway Coast and Glens local heat of Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch, earning a place in the grand final next month.

Founder Frances Duffy, who was awarded £1,000 for the local heat win, will now be in with a chance of taking home a further £5,000 in investment for her business idea in the competition, organised by Go Succeed.

A clinical psychologist working in dementia care, Frances founded 6D-Dementia to help equip caregivers with practical skills to help manage challenging situations and alleviate stress for people living with dementia. 

To earn a place in the final, Frances made the ‘Ultimate Pitch’ to a panel of judges from across the business and civic communities.

Other winners included Nick Kellermann, whose business Analog Ramps was chosen for the Impact Award and Fiona Houston of The Vault Gymnastics Club, who won the Rising Star Award.

The local heats are taking place in each of Northern Ireland’s 11 council areas every week throughout October and November. The local winners will progress to the final with an overall winner announced at a special event in November, coinciding with Global Entrepreneurship Week.

The public will also have their say as the 11 Ultimate Pitch finalists will also be in the running to win the ‘People’s Choice Award’ which gives them the chance to vote for their favourite pitch via Go Succeed’s social media channels.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said:

"We are incredibly proud to see local businesses like 6-D Dementia thrive in initiatives such as Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch. This competition showcases the innovation and determination of entrepreneurs in our borough, and we wish Frances continued success as she progresses to the regional final in November

“At Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, we are committed to fostering an environment where businesses of all sizes and sectors can grow.  We will continue to support our pitchers and other local entrepreneurs on their growth journeys"

In addition to an overall winner who will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award, special category prizes will include the Go Succeed Impact Award, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award and the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16-25 year-old entrepreneur.

As well as the financial award, winners will receive a package of support including marketing and other business support services.

The final will take place in Innovation Factory, Belfast on 21^st November 2024.