Businesswoman Ciara McGurk is jetting off to Las Vegas to pitch for the chance to win a life-changing investment for her eco-conscious laundry detergent brand, Tallow + Ash.
McGurk, who was born and raised in Gloucester, has made it to the final five in a competition launched by BrewDog CEO and co-founder, James Watt.
The Next Unicorn competition sees contestants campaign on equity crowdfunding site, Crowdcube, to win a share of £5 million to be injected into their business.
The investment model aims to create the next generation of 'unicorns,' to follow in the footsteps of BrewDog in reaching a landmark billion-pound valuation.
This unique approach to investing allows members of the public to invest in the chosen brands and businesses alongside Watt, pound for pound, offering the chance to be a part of a business's success story.
More than 750 entrants were considered and then shortlisted down to 20 by a carefully selected panel. The final five are heading for the bright lights of Las Vegas in June with the hopes of securing the ultimate prize of an investment — a minimum of £100,000 is guaranteed for each of the winning businesses.
Watt said: 'It has been amazing so far — it's so brilliant to see so many fantastic entrepreneurs and outstanding businesses.'
£1 million will be given to three successful businesses, with a further £4 million to be unlocked as and when the winning businesses reach certain milestones in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Tallow + Ash is due to officially launch on Friday 23 June 2023, with six laundry shampoos and conditioners in a range of perfume-inspired scents. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, with no sulphates, dyes or harsh chemicals, making for a cleaner wash and a healthier planet.
