Calling all entrepreneurs!

The seventh national HSBC Start-Up Stars Awards, supported by East Midlands DevelopmentHSBC Start-Up Stars. Sky News. Daily Express. Agency (emda) were launched this week – kicking off a search for the UK’s most promising start-up businesses and the inspirational entrepreneurs behind them.

The Awards, which are backed nationally by government, are open to any fledgling firm less than three years old which can prove it has the determination, dedication, creativity and business acumen for success.

This year also sees the introduction of a special Green Award for the start-up company doing the most to put the environment at the top of its business agenda.

emda is keen to encourage businesses from across the East Midlands to enter. John O’Reilly, Business Support Director at emda, said: “Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) – which includes business start-ups - account for over 95% of the region’s businesses and we recognise the huge contribution they are making to the East Midlands economy.  emda is pleased to support these Awards and hope that by highlighting entrepreneurial talent, more people from across the East Midlands will be inspired to follow and become a part of our flourishing region.”

He added: “I’m particularly pleased to see green issues featuring in these Awards; since we know that resource efficiency is a hugely topical issue, not only because it influences the performance and productivity of businesses across the region, but also because of its environmental impact.”

Other enhancements for 2007, designed to make the Awards bigger and better than ever before, include cash and prizes worth £85,000 plus five Regional Heats that will now generate 50 Regional Winners.

Helping to launch the Awards, Minister of State for Industry and the Regions, Margaret Hodge said: “A dynamic start-up market is essential in helping the UK meet the challenges of today’s globally competitive market.  Through these prestigious Awards, an important contribution is being made to encourage a more entrepreneurial society, with more opportunities for individuals and stronger growth for the economy.”

The Start-Up Stars regional heats will seek entries from all over the UK.  A panel of local business experts will then select the Top 10 new businesses, who will go on to fly the flag for the Midlands region at the national judging session.  They will be invited to London to explain why their business should win £25,000 plus the coveted title ‘HSBC Start-Up Star 2007’.If you’re one of the growing number of men and women in Britain who have said ‘yes’ to an independent future and discovered the best boss to work for is yourself – the organisers want to hear from you.
 
Entry forms are available from HSBC branches, online at www.hsbc.co.uk/startupstars or by contacting the Start-Up Stars office on 0870 902 3333.  Closing date for entries is Friday April 13.