Bannatyne’s Bright Sparks, run by Durham Education Business Partnership and Darlington Council, aims to promote enterprise and business skills among secondary school pupils.
Year 10 students from schools across Darlington have worked with local businesses mentors to develop new products and services.
Businesses involved include Amec; Barclays; Brian Coates & Co; Cummins; The Forum Music Centre; Orange and the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA).
They have been helping the young people get their businesses, with names including REVAMP, EB Construction and Branksome Recycling, off the ground.
On Monday (June 30) the young people will present their ideas at the Dolphin Centre to a panel of judges, including Duncan Bannatyne and Alan Noble, Executive Director of Northgate, in a Dragon’s Den-style final.
The presentations will also be watched by the young people’s families, teachers, peers and an invited audience of local dignitaries and VIPs.
The best business idea will win a prize.
John Williams, Leader of Darlington Council, said: “Bannatyne’s Bright Sparks has been a great opportunity for these young people to learn important skills from business mentors.
“I know the judges are looking forward to seeing the young people’s work and I am wish them all the very best. “