Startup stars set to shine brighter

A North East enterprise organisation is taking bold steps to reignite entrepreneurial spirit in the region amid falling start-up numbers.

Charlotte Windebank, managing director of Gateshead-based FIRST, which provides aspiring and new entrepreneurs with access to information, networks and tailored support, is leading efforts to celebrate and support early-stage business owners through the Startup Awards North East, backed by Business Enterprise Fund (BEF). 

With the region seeing a 17 per cent drop in new businesses, the awards aim to encourage more people to turn their ideas into action.

The awards, which evolved from the “If we can, you can” challenge, recognise entrepreneurs across three categories – SkillUP, StartUP and ScaleUP – based on their stage of development.

Charlotte said: “I know the challenges of our entrepreneurial landscape and how it’s led to lower start-up rates.

“Fewer women founders and a scarcity of businesses compared to other regions that maintain stable levels.

“The North East is moving in the opposite direction, but this doesn’t reflect a lack of ambition, talent or vision.

“It’s vital we do everything possible to reverse the trend and improve our region’s statistics.

“While we may lag in start-up survival rates, our determination to champion those taking the leap to create start-up enterprises must be acknowledged.

“It would be great to see our ambitious and successful people building global businesses in the North East.”

Award winners gain access to expert advice and regional opportunities, helping them grow and succeed. 

BEF’s continued support reflects a wider ambition to strengthen the North East’s startup scene and champion innovation at every level.

Stephen Waud, chief executive of BEF, added: “Startups are the lifeblood of a thriving economy.

“The North East is full of ambitious entrepreneurs requiring the support to turn ideas into sustainable businesses, and that’s what we’re here to provide.

“By supporting these awards, we are investing in the next generation of business leaders, giving them the visibility, financial backing, and expert connections needed to grow with confidence.”

Gill Hunter, managing director of law firm Square One Law, which sponsors the ScaleUP category, added: “We’ve got a region full of talent that just needs a bit of support to get started.

“By working with and supporting FIRST, we’re helping to back ambitious entrepreneurs and create the right conditions for them to grow.

“With a supportive business community behind them, they’re well placed to scale and thrive – helping to make the North East an even better place to do business.”

To find out more about the awards, see here.

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