Member Article

Finally new entrepreneurs are getting recognised

Since 2010, the UK has seen a growth in self employment, contributing to one third of new jobs created in that period. Last year alone micro-businesses, those with fewer than 10 employees, accounted for 95% of businesses in the UK.[1] It is no wonder that in 2014 we see the emergence of a new award that recognises new entrepreneurs, those that are brave enough to venture into the market on their own and bring their idea to life.

The Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year Award, supported by Vonage, is part of the National Business Awards (NBA) taking place this November. It celebrates individuals who, despite trading for less than18 months as of April this year, have demonstrated the entrepreneurial aptitude, commercial acumen, vision, ambition and drive to build a successful enterprise.

Over the last few years, Vonage has recognised the positive impact entrepreneurs, micro- and small businesses have had on the UK’s economy. As such, we have been advocates of supporting these individuals by ensuring they have the right tools in place to succeed.

This year we are showing our support through our involvement with The Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Quite unlike any of the other awards to date, the selection process will involve two rounds. In the first round, ten semi-finalists will be given the opportunity to participate in a ‘Dragon’s Den’-style event that will decide the award finalists. This will take place at the International Festival of Business in Liverpool on June 24th. During that event, each entrant will present a three minute pitch on their business model, key achievements and elements underpinning future growth to a panel of judges and an audience of NBA alumni, investors, entrepreneurs, business leaders and media.

It will be an exciting day for all of us as we select the five finalists among the semi-finalists based on their pre-supplied entry forms, pitches and responses to questions from the panel. Additionally, the winner, announced at this year’s National Business Awards, will be determined by a mixture of judges’ scores and public vote.

As a former entrepreneur, I know that time is of the essence but urge you to submit your entry to the award so that your business can get the recognition it deserves. I look forward to hearing about your new venture and possibly seeing you in Liverpool.

For more information: www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk. Deadline for entries is 23 May 2014.

[1] Business Population Estimates, Department for Business, Innovation and Skill, 2013

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Burckhardt .