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26/04/2012 - Boost the Business in You Competition Offers Support and £15,000 of Advertising
Boost the Business in You is a competition delivered in partnership between the Government's Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) through its Business in You campaign and Guardian News & Media Limited.
Through real-life case studies, the campaign will reward companies that have started-up or evolved their operations in spite of the challenging economic times. The aim is to encourage entrepreneurial people who are starting up or growing a business through developing ideas, writing a business plan, employing more staff or commencing overseas trade. As well as helping start-up and business growth, the programme provides links to key business support tools.
A varied package of support is on offer, including £15,000 worth of advertising for winning companies and one-to-one meetings with four business experts; all of whom recently took on voluntary roles as Government mentoring ambassadors.
Additionally, support includes in-depth advice from the Institute of Chartered Accountants; advice on accessing finance; filming services; a package of business support from high street banks; tailored networking opportunities; and membership of the Institute of Recruiters with specialist recruitment mentoring.
Small and medium-sized businesses in England that are in their start-up phase, their first year of trading or those that are already established and in need of developmental assistance may enter the Competition.
Speaking about the launch of the initiative, Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said:
"Having run my own business I know the difficulties that entrepreneurs can face as they look to establish themselves and then grow.
"This competition is a fantastic opportunity to get free access to some of the most successful entrepreneurs for mentoring as well as some great advertising opportunities.
"We recognise that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are key to helping the UK economy grow. Business in You is a great way for entrepreneurs to find out how to access the support and advice that is already out there that can make their enterprise a success."
The closing date for entries to the Competition is 7 June 2012.
Click here for further details and to complete an online application form (opens in new window).
Source: Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) and the Guardian, 26/04/2012
