TWO businesses hoping for success at this year’s Venturefest have been put forward by Basingstoke business IncuHive.

IncuHive, which opened its new co-working space in Church Street last year, funded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, works with start-up companies offering free workshops, networking events and training for local businesses, as well as hot-desk spaces for people to work.

George Scott-Welsh, who runs the Basingstoke branch, hopes that the two start-up companies will do well at Venturefest 2019.

He said: “I put forward about eight companies that are involved with IncuHive for a pitching opportunity for investment and I know that at least two of my eight have won that opportunity. It’s an amazing environment for start-ups that are struggling to find finding.”

One of the businesses is called Side Walks, and the CEO of the company has designed a solar panel that is installed into the pavements.

The second business, Zip Us In, offers a maternity solution to pregnant women.

George explained: “It means pregnant women don’t have to buy lots of new clothes, particularly coats. They offer a panel that zips into your coat so it then goes over the bump.”

He said he was excited to find out how the businesses get on at Venturefest 2019, adding: “There’s not a huge amount outside of London for the start-up community so it’s really important having this type of event. It’s a great environment to showcase your ideas as well as learn from other start-ups, from pitching to presenting to raising awareness.”