STATELY home Blenheim Palace is inviting entrepreneurs and new businesses to take part in a start-up scheme aimed at boosting their chances of success.

The opportunity is open to any business which is less than two years old and can provide something which could be stocked in the palace’s shops.

May 10 is the deadline and the successful candidates will be notified by May 24.

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They will then have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to Blenheim’s senior management team over the summer.

After undergoing presentation training, they will take part in a final pitch on 26th June when the winning applicant will be selected and awarded with a contract to supply their products to the estate’s retail outlets.

In addition to the contract, the winner will also receive ongoing tips and advice from members of the Blenheim management team.

Blenheim CEO Dominic Hare said: "As part of our stated goal to triple our economic contribution to the local community within 10 years Blenheim is committed to providing start-up businesses with support and a busy marketplace to showcase their products."

Last year’s competition attracted more than 50 entrants of which eight went through to the final pitching process.

Neve’s Bees, which produces 100 per cent natural beeswax skincare products, and designer and artist Kathryn Croxson, who creates a range of clothing accessories and homeware, were both selected and had their products go on sale at Blenheim Palace.