The students, who will graduate from the school in November, were invited to present their social enterprise businesses to Robin Little from Beer and Partners and Harry Berry, chairman of the EEhub board and partner at New Venture Partners.

Following their pitches, students were each given feedback and that all-important “I’m in” or “I’m out”.

Digby Chacksfield, learning manager at the hub, said: “This is fantastic real-life experience for our students who will have to go out and find financial and other backing for their social enterprise businesses.

“This sort of very robust exercise where they learn how to convince others of the worth of their businesses will be really important to them. It also demonstrates just how unique and valuable our learning experiences are.”

EEhub chief executive Celia Hodson added: “It’s great to see real-life angel investors giving up their time to support our students and scrutinise their businesses plans. We really value the input from Beer and Partners to nurture our merging business talent to grow the region’s economy.”

Robin Little from Beer and Partners said: “This has been a fascinating day for me. I represent what is known as angel investors so I’m always on the look out for new businesses that need not only capital but also a helping hand along the way.

“The great thing about the business coming out of the EEhub’s School for Social Entrepreneurs is that they represent part of the growing social enterprise sector.”