LewishamNews

Jamaican patty maker shortlisted for £25K business grant

A Catford-based business which cooks up authentic, vegan Jamaican food has been shortlisted for a £25,000 small business grant.

The Vegan Patty Lady, in Kangley Bridge Road, is one of six small businesses in the final of Business Boost, a small business initiative led by insurance company Simply Business.

Natasha Orumbie, founder of The Vegan Patty Lady, said: “I’m beyond thrilled and deeply humbled to be shortlisted from thousands of incredible entrants for this opportunity. 

“Winning a £25,000 grant could be a game-changer for my business, and I’m so grateful for the chance to take it to the next level.”

Following more than 17,000 applications, the programme will award a cash grant to one small business, to provide crucial support as they navigate rising living costs, increased energy bills and ongoing supply chain uncertainties.

Other shortlisted companies in the running for the financial boost are Wild Chai, an Indian tea company in Hounslow, Thornborough Cider, a small-batch cidery in Yorkshire, Comfa, a family run businesses in Derby which develops sensory products for neurodivergent children, NameSwitch Ltd, a name change service in Hungerford and Little Perth, an Aussie-inspired florist in Bournemouth.

The judges will pick a winner based on how the business positively impacts society, innovation and practicality of the business’s plan for the prize money. Judges are also looking for compelling stories that showcase the business’s trials, triumphs, and inspirational moments.

The winner will be announced on December 13, following a decision by a panel of expert judges including Harpreet Kaur, winner of BBC’s The Apprentice.

Bea Montoya, UK COO at Simply Business, said: “With almost twenty thousand entries, we were deeply moved to hear about the big dreams of small business owners across the country, and it’s clearer than ever that our self-employed community is brimming with passion, drive and resilience.
“We wish the best of luck to the six incredible businesses on the shortlist.”
Pictured top: Natasha Orumbie, founder of The Vegan Patty Lady in Catford (Picture: Simply Business)

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