
Basic information
and FAQs
Welcome to the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition FAQ page. This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the competition, including locations, deadlines, support and other advice. Whether you’re new to the competition or need clarification on specific aspects, you’ll find useful information here to help guide you through the process.
When does the next inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition begin?
The upcoming inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition begins with an Information Session on Saturday, 28th June 2025. This session will introduce you to the competition structure, feature an inspiration talk from a business leader, and explain the showbag challenge. It’s the perfect starting point to get all the details you need before diving into the competition.
Where will the Information Session take place?
The Information Session will take place in Bublshop headquarters at Mere Road, Gillingham SP8 4EU.
Must one live in Dorset to participate?
No, you do not need to live in Dorset to participate in inTurn2025. The competition is open to all young entrepreneurs, regardless of location. However, participants will need to attend events in Dorset, such as the Business Training and the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show. Please ensure you can commit to attending these key events if selected to participate.
What is the submission deadline for entering the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition?
The submission deadline for entering the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition is Wednesday, 30th July. By this date, you must submit your final business proposal and budget for your showbag. Only those who submit by the deadline will be considered for the next stage of the competition.
Must the product be showbags?
For inTurn2025, the set product is showbags. Selling showbags gives participants a concrete challenge with manageable constraints, allowing them to explore product curation, marketing, and pricing in an accessible, real-world context.
Is the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition free to enter?
Yes, the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition is free to enter.
How does one register for the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition?
To register for the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition, please complete the sign-up form here.
What are the eligibility requirements for participants?
Participants must be aged between 15 and 20 years old. Participants must be able to commit to attending the program’s events as well as working on their project between events.
Can one participate if one has no prior business experience or doesn’t take business studies?
Yes, you can still participate in the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition even if you have no prior business experience or are not studying business at school. The competition is designed to help young individuals develop entrepreneurial skills, regardless of their background.
What is the judging criteria for the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition?
The judging criteria for the inTurn Young Entrepreneur Competition is straightforward: the winner is determined by profit. The entrepreneur who generates the highest profit from selling their showbags at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show will be crowned the winner. The competition focuses entirely on the financial success of your showbag, cutting to the essence of what determines success in the world of business.
What is the prize for the winner?
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Can one participate as part of a team, or is it an individual competition?
As a young entrepreneur, it is up to you to decide which is more conducive for your success. Both individual and group efforts are welcomed. inTurn will not be dividing participates into groups, as it is up to the young entrepreneurs to decide.
Can I make multiple type of showbags, or should I focus on one type?
This is another business decision that the young entrepreneurs must decide upon. We have had inTurn participants succeed doing both in the past.
How can I get help with my business proposal or showbag idea?
You can get help with your business proposal or showbag idea in the following ways:
Business Training Session: Attend the Business Training day on Saturday, 12th July, where you’ll participate in workshops with experienced mentors from Dorset Energy Solutions. They will help you refine your showbag idea, develop your business plan, and guide you through key aspects such as budgeting and marketing.
Mentorship: Throughout the competition, you may have access to guidance from business leaders and mentors who can offer advice on how to improve your proposal and showbag concept.
Information Session: The Information Session on Saturday, 28th June will provide you with insights from a guest speaker, along with a Q&A session. This can help clarify your ideas and provide valuable input before finalizing your proposal.
Competition Organizers: If you have specific questions or need additional support, the competition organizers will be available to provide advice or direct you to further resources.
Make use of these opportunities to refine your business proposal and develop a winning showbag idea.
Are there any restrictions on the types of products I can include in my showbag?
Generally, as long as you market to the appropriate audience, you should be fine. Obviously dangerous, illegal or sexually explicit materials are prohibited. If you’re genuinely conflicted on any products, please do not hesitate to email inTurn staff at admin@inturn.org.uk
Didn’t answer your question? Don’t hesitate to contact our friendly inTurn team: