Rio Ferdinand and Sara Davies to Judge Groundbreaking Start-Up Pitch Competition at CoCreate Europe

Exciting News for Entrepreneurs in Europe!

Alibaba.com, a major player in global B2B e-commerce, is set to host the CoCreate Europe event in London on November 14, 2025. This inaugural event promises to spotlight innovation and entrepreneurship by featuring a Start-Up Pitch Competition where aspiring entrepreneurs can showcase their groundbreaking product ideas. Leading the charge in the judging panel will be none other than legendary former footballer and entrepreneur Rio Ferdinand and the acclaimed businesswoman and television personality Sara Davies.

What is CoCreate Pitch?

CoCreate Pitch is a new global competition designed to discover emerging talent in product innovation across Europe. The competition aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with opportunities to pitch their ideas to a prestigious panel of judges. With a total prize pool of $400,000, this competition is not just about recognition but also about receiving substantial financial backing to convert ideas into reality. The competition will feature 30 finalists, of which ten winners will receive cash prizes up to $20,000, while the ultimate champion stands to gain $200,000 to further develop their product.

Meet the Judges

Rio Ferdinand, a titan in the sports world, has transitioned from football to pioneering his business ventures, leveraging his experience to mentor upcoming entrepreneurs. He remarked, "On the pitch, I learned the significance of ambition, fresh ideas, and determination. I hope to share these experiences and inspire the next generation of start-ups."

Sara Davies, known for founding Crafter's Companion and as a seasoned investor on BBC's 'Dragons' Den,' is equally enthusiastic. She emphasized her eagerness to uncover Europe's untapped entrepreneurial potential, stating, "I look forward to hearing fresh ideas and helping to ignite new businesses."

A Platform for Market Expansion

The CoCreate Europe event is designed as a meeting point where entrepreneurs can connect with manufacturers and investors to explore growth potential. It will also provide insights into Alibaba.com's comprehensive tools, which include AI-powered sourcing to automate the procurement process and connect businesses with over 200,000 verified suppliers. This practical aspect of the event aims to make sourcing and business dealings more efficient and reliable for SMEs.

Event Highlights

Not exclusively for pitch competition participants, CoCreate Europe will also include keynote speeches and discussions on various topics such as:

- Cutting Business Costs: Practical advice on how to increase efficiency and savings.
- Building Resilient Supply Chains: Strategies to ensure business sustainability even in challenging circumstances.
- Harnessing AI for Growth: Learning how to leverage technology for competitive advantages.

Conclusion

CoCreate Europe represents a unique opportunity for emerging entrepreneurs across the continent to gain unprecedented access to resources, funding, and mentorship from experts like Rio Ferdinand and Sara Davies. With its commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of businesses, Alibaba.com is setting the stage for a bright future for SMEs in Europe.

To participate in this landmark event or to find out more, visit CoCreate Europe website. Ticket options include General, Premium, and VIP admissions, providing attendees with full access to all sessions and valuable networking opportunities.