Partner Article

'If we can, you can' Challenge launches for 2009

The search for the region’s new ‘Faces of Entrepreneurship’ for 2010 has begun, with the launch of the second ‘If we can, you can’ Challenge.

Last year’s Challenge saw 150 aspiring entrepreneurs from across the region enter, attracting another 280 new members to the ‘If we can, you can’ online community.

Carole Beverley, Chief Executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “There is no reason why the current economic downturn should affect our entrepreneurial spirit. Today’s business environment is still ripe with opportunity for innovation and instead of dwelling on fears it’s a great time to grab opportunities that will arise.

“In the quarter leading up to September last year 129,282 UK business successfully got off the ground. And it’s well documented that business started in a downturn are robust and sustainable against adverse economic conditions.”

The ‘If we can, you can’ Challenge is open to entrepreneurs at all stages. Entrants have until 3 May to log on at www.ifwecanyoucan.co.uk/challenge and put themselves or a friend forward.

A shortlist of five entrants will then be offered the chance to meet a ‘Pick Our Brains Opportunity’ panel to discuss business ideas with last year’s finalists and senior Forum members. Two will then go into the final and be put forward for the public vote, with the winners announced on the 4 June.

Carole said: “The Challenge is all about celebrating and encouraging people with the vision, passion and determination to make a business work. So whatever stage you’re at, you’re on a level playing field with everyone else who enters.”

The Challenge is part of ‘If we can, you can,’ a campaign driven by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and funded by One North East. To find out more about ‘If we can, you can’ and the Challenge please visit www.ifwecanyoucan.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .