As THE BIG IDEA - a unique business programme created by Vodafone and Sky to search for the next great British business idea - airs on Sky One next month, Vodafone UK today unveils a new approach for its small business customers comprising a suite of online and mobile Internet services.  By providing access to useful business information in a variety of ways, Vodafone is redefining how it engages with Britain's aspiring small business community. 

Available from October 2 are an extensive web site www.thebigidea.tv and mobile portal featuring practical information for small businesses; products and services, discussion forums and expert opinion.  In addition, the sites will allow viewers of THE BIG IDEA to engage with the show's celebrity mentors and contestants.  

Dominic Chambers, head of brand and marketing communications for Vodafone UK, said: "THE BIG IDEA is part of a broad programme of activity to support and nurture small businesses in a way that we have never done before.  We wanted to transcend the traditional advertising model and provide an accessible platform that enables the nation to participate in the programme whilst at the same time derive real benefit from the experience. These new online and mobile services are a fundamental part of that strategy."

From October 15, the mobile portal will be enhanced to contain a new range of exclusive small business offerings including a free Any Business Questions service, tools for businesses to set up their own mobile site, a Virtual Investor game, information on how to register a business with the 'Find & Seek' location-based service and tools to help with SMS and MMS marketing. To access the portal, text BIG to 84321. 

Running alongside the main television programme, there will be a unique opportunity for existing and potential businesses or individuals across the country to submit their own ideas at www.vodafone.co.uk/thebigidea where they will have the chance to win £10,000 as well as to take advantage of advice from THE BIG IDEA mentors to help make their idea successful.

THE BIG IDEA is the first mainstream prime time TV property that has been createdwith content that appeals to the diverse needs of smaller businesses. It is the UK's largest ever search for budding entrepreneurs of all kinds, with the winner receiving a start-up fund of £100,000 to execute a business plan that will have been crafted with help from their mentors and the audience and ultimately 'approved' by the viewers. The mentors are Ruth Badger, Craig Johnston and Lord Karan Billimoria and the show's presenters are Richard Bacon and Di Stewart.

THE BIG IDEA will be broadcast from October 15 2006 on Sky One as part of its new autumn schedule, with extended programming on Sky Three.  The online and mobile portal has been developed by Vodafone's mobile marketing team as part of Vodafone Target, in conjunction with mobile agency Marvellous.

For further information please contact:
Ben Evetts
Vodafone UK Public Relations
Tel: 0208 759 0005
email: press.office@vodafone.com

About Vodafone UK
Vodafone UK has 16.3 million customers and is part of the world's largest mobile community offering a wide range of voice and data communications. The company is committed to providing mobile solutions that allow both consumer and business customers to make the most of now. In addition, Vodafone connects customers across the globe with roaming agreements worldwide. It provides 3G roaming in 18 countries and offers great roaming value with Vodafone Passport. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.co.uk.