EF News
The Entrepreneurs’ Forum is shaking up its annual Entrepreneurial Awards in a bid to shine a light on more of the remarkable talent and diversity of the North East’s business community.
Now in its 20th year, the Entrepreneurial Awards will recognise entrepreneurs in a string of new categories including One to Watch, Impact, Scale-up and Champion.
From these four winners, one will be chosen as the overall ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’.
Along with this shake-up, more nominees will be shortlisted for each category, with the One to Watch, Impact, Scale-up and Champion award categories featuring up to five finalists.
The application process has also been simplified to allow video, image and short form text applications.
The Lifetime Achievement award category remains unchanged. As in previous years, it will remain a closely guarded secret until the awards ceremony, chosen by the Forum board, and will be presented to someone who has made a considerable commitment to business and the region over a significant period of time.
Since the first award was presented to John Hays of Hays Travel in 2004, the Entrepreneurial Awards have recognised over 60 of the region’s leading entrepreneurs, including property developer Sir John Hall, Helen McArdle CBE and Sir Graham Wylie CBE.
Any North East entrepreneur can apply or nominate someone they think deserves recognition, they do not need to be a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.
Speaking about the 2024 Entrepreneurial Awards, Elaine Stroud, CEO of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “There is incredible entrepreneurial talent in the region and I’m calling for entrepreneurs from all corners of the North East to apply and be recognised for the impact they are making.
“The new categories ensure there is a category for all types of entrepreneurial talent in our region. Ultimately, they're all about illuminating local success, celebrating entrepreneurs who are rewriting the rules - the trailblazers, pioneers and innovators of the North East.”
Applications and nominations are open for the 2024 Entrepreneurial Awards until Friday 24th May at 5pm and can be made online via the Entrepreneurs’ Forum website. Winners will be announced at the Forum’s gala dinner on Friday 27th September at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. Tickets are available online at www.entrepreneursforum.net/awards
