The hunt is on for the region’s most promising science and technology businesses to take part in Venturefest Yorkshire 2010 and potentially win prizes worth over £37,000.

Venturefest Yorkshire, which is supported by Yorkshire Forward, is on the look out for 50 of the best young science, technology and innovative businesses to take part in its Innovation Showcase exhibition, as well as for applicants for its Dragons’ Den-style Investment Competition.

The Innovation Showcase, which is sponsored by Business Link Yorkshire, gives young businesses the chance to showcase their products and services to potential customers, buyers and investors. The successful 50 applicants will receive an exhibition stand worth £500, giving them significant exposure to more than 2,000 delegates looking for advice, contacts and investment opportunities.

Ellen Breur, Business Link Yorkshire’s PR and sponsorship manager says, “Innovation Showcase is aimed at entrepreneurs and would-be business owners and gives new companies maximum exposure to, and support from, professional advisers, potential investors and other entrepreneurs. In challenging times, this is a tremendous opportunity to access exhibition space worth hundreds of pounds as well as win £12,000-worth of business support at the region’s top event for entrepreneurs.”

The event organisers are also inviting applications for its Investment Competition, in which a shortlist of up to ten applicants will pitch their business idea to a panel of judges in the hope of winning a prize package worth more than £25,000 and receive significant exposure for their business.

Alex McWhirter, Assistant Director of Business at Yorkshire Forward, commented: “Venturefest provides a platform to communicate that starting a business is a valid career option. It's vital that people with entrepreneurial spirit receive the right advice and support to help them to achieve their career goals.

“Science, technology and innovation play a vital part in ensuring that Yorkshire and Humber’s economy grows, therefore it is important that businesses in these sectors are present at this year’s event - along with fund managers, venture capitalists and other investors who can see for themselves the skills, expertise and enthusiasm the region offers.”

Organised by Connect Yorkshire in association with The Yorkshire Association of Business Angels and sponsored by The Shepherd Group, the annual Dragons’ Den-style Investment Competition aims to help increase the profile of some of the region’s hottest young business prospects.

Venturefest Yorkshire takes place on 10 February 2010 at York Racecourse and is supported by Yorkshire Forward and sponsored by organisations such as Science City York.

To be part of Venturefest Yorkshire 2010, visit www.venturefestyorkshire.net