The British Equestrian Trade Association hosted something a little different at their recent 2026 event — a Dragons’ Den style live pitching presented by social media influencer Megan Elphick, where budding entrepreneurs went head to head to secure up to £250,000 in combined potential cash investment and business support.
Four entrepreneurs, start-ups and fledgling businesses within the equestrian and pet industry reached the final stage, and pitched live for cash investment, as well as the chance of mentoring, industry introductions, and strategic guidance.
The judges, or ‘Mustangs’, were:
- David Mitson (HLM Investment Group / Science Supplements / evoke)
- Joanna Jensen (Founder of Childs Farm and investor)
- Michael Darley (Country Direct)
Four companies reach the final stage:
- Cross Section Equestrian, whose product is a modular, four-season intelligent horse rug system
- Neigh Tangles, a grooming product innovation, which received an offer of an interest-free loan and business support
- Stud Fast, who presented non-metal, biodegradable polymer horse sport stud and received an offer of £50,000 for an equity stake
- SealStop, innovators of a water-saving device, secured an offer of £100,000 for an equity stake.
A must-watch for anyone thinking of starting their own business, watch Mustangs’ Corral for free on Horse & Country here.