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Meet the Finalists: UBC Business Boost!

At UBC, we believe in backing bold ideas, ambitious founders, and the power of small businesses to drive change in their industries and communities.

The UBC Business Boost offers early-stage businesses the chance to win a tailored support package including a virtual office, coworking membership, and expert services to accelerate their growth. We received inspiring entries from across the country – from purpose-led startups to tech innovators solving real-world problems.

 After a careful shortlisting process, we’re proud to introduce the three finalists for the 2025 award.

Perfect Test Drive – Marcus Jones, Reading

Modernising the car buying journey

Perfect Test Drive is on a mission to bring the car industry up to speed – quite literally. Founder Marcus Jones has developed a new online platform designed to streamline test drive bookings for both customers and dealerships. The platform allows users to quickly and efficiently manage appointments, reducing delays and lost opportunities in the automotive sales process.

Combining intuitive tech with practical insight into how drivers shop, this project stands out for its clarity of purpose and scalability. With plans to launch a beta test in Reading and build momentum from there, Marcus is putting the pedal to the metal on innovation in a traditionally slow-moving sector.

Learn more: perfecttestdrive.com

🥪 LunchAlert.me – Ashley Wright, Warrington

Helping sandwich vans and hungry workers connect

If you’ve ever worked in an office, chances are you’ve heard the lunchtime horn of a sandwich van – or missed it entirely. LunchAlert.me is here to change that. This smart, simple app helps local food vendors notify nearby customers of their location and menu in real time.

Founder Ashley Wright saw the opportunity to support small van-based food businesses with a digital edge, boosting footfall and reducing wasted stock. It’s a win-win: vendors improve visibility and efficiency, and customers never miss lunch again.

By combining local business support with everyday convenience, LunchAlert.me is a great example of how tech can enhance even the most familiar parts of daily life.

Learn more: lunchalert.me

🧠 Spectrum7 Neurodivergent Coaching – Vivienne Okey, Ashford

Bridging the gap between support and independence

Spectrum7 is a deeply personal, purpose-driven initiative by Vivienne Okey – a coach and parent with firsthand experience of the challenges facing neurodivergent adults. From employment coaching and energy management to trauma-informed online courses, Spectrum7 offers practical, person-centred support for individuals navigating life after formal education.

The business is built on lived experience, and seeks to serve those who are too often overlooked by mainstream services – particularly autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic adults who don’t “look disabled” but still face daily barriers.

Vivienne’s vision is clear: to create a trusted, inclusive hub for neurodivergent people and the families who support them. Spectrum7 is more than a business – it’s a legacy of empathy, resilience, and action.

Learn more: Spectrum 7

Public voting is now open

Public voting is now open, and we’re inviting our community to help choose the winner of this year’s UBC Business Boost. You can read more about each finalist and cast your vote here:

👉 Vote for the Winner here

Voting closes on 14/07/2025, and the winner will be announced shortly after.