Following the success of previous #StartMeUp initiatives in Aberdeen, Liverpool and Manchester, Orega’s Glasgow #StartMeUp Pitch asked local entrepreneurs to submit short business pitches online. Five finalists made it through to pitch face-to-face.

Danny Campbell of Hoko Design impressed the judges with his brilliant architectural design company. He beat the other finalists – Turtle Pack, Bounce Back, Mac Recruit Group Ltd and CU Apps – to win the £10K prize, thanks to his well-thought-out business model.

The judging panel included Orega’s co-founder Zach Douglas, as well as business personalities Bruce Walker (founder of FutureX), Nick Cohen (founder of PCR and IT Customer Director at Arrow Business Communications) and Alan Mahon (founder of Brewgooder).

Hoko Design receives six months’ free office space worth £10,000 in Orega’s prestigious 9 George Square centre.

Orega’s co-founder, Zach Douglas, explained the inspiration behind the competition: “The #StartMeUp format has proved to be a great way to connect with the local business community as we add new Orega centres around the country.

“Having been through the challenge of growing a business from the ground up, I know from personal experience how difficult it can be to get over that initial hurdle of creating a ‘proper’ set-up when you’re building a new business.

‘It’s very gratifying to be able to give a growing company with loads of promise a hand. Smart office space in a sought-after location and professional support from our teams are a natural way for us to help.

“It has been great to see so many talented individuals in one room, and I was very impressed with the pitches that we have seen today. Danny is very passionate about his business, knew his numbers inside and out and I look forward to seeing Hoko Design grow at Orega Glasgow.

“We can’t wait to see what Hoko Design does next.”

Danny of Hoko Design added: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won. Where the business is at the moment, it’s going to give us a big lift and the team are going to be really excited when I head back to the office to let them know we are moving to George Square.”