Open Ventures Challenge

The Open Ventures Challenge created a diverse online community and gave them the challenge of creating new fundraising models for Cancer Research UK.

NESTA, leading cancer charity Cancer Research UK and collaboration experts mo.jo worked together to build an online community of people with business ideas that could generate cash for Cancer Research UK.

Shortlisted ventures

Cancer Research UK will work with the following ventures to develop their ideas:

The online community

Ideas were submitted online and the strongest built up venture teams to develop them into more viable business models. In summer 2009 the groups presented their ideas to Cancer Research UK’s venture board.

Extraordinary Experiences

A national raffle venture that could win you a ’money can’t buy’ experience of a lifetime.

Project Rose

Lizze McLean started Project Rose when she was 13 years old and her mum was diagnosed with breast cancer. For a cost of £2.50 students in secondary schools and colleges can pre-order silk roses that are delivered anonymously to their friends or secret love on Valentine's Day.

Open Gym

Open Gym is a network of outdoor fitness groups, providing weekly exercise classes in local parks across the UK. Qualified fitness coaches provide one hour outdoor workouts every week and all the profits go to Cancer Research UK.

Visit Cancer Research UK to find out more about each of the shortlisted ventures

How it works

NESTA, Cancer Research UK and mo.jo are now calling for people with good business ideas - or the skills and energy to help make them happen. 

In summer 2009, the groups will present their ventures to Cancer Research UK's venture board. The successful teams will walk away with at least £10,000 in investment to pilot their idea.