WARRINGTON South MP Andy Carter is asking constituents to get in touch if they know someone they would like to nominate for the Entrepreneur Awards supported by Octopus Group’s Springboard initiative.
The MP says the pandemic has brought out the very best from world-leading entrepreneurs in the most challenging conditions. That is why Octopus Group, the financial services and energy firm, has set up the awards and asked MPs to nominate entrepreneurs in their constituencies who have thrived during this challenging period, be that by starting and growing their business against the odds or by using their company’s resources and expertise to support their local communities.
These could be the local distillers who shifted production to hand sanitiser, the furloughed worker who made gift boxes to cheer up her colleagues and turned it into a business, or the teen entrepreneurs designing and making t-shirts.
Mr Carter wants to recognise as many of these inspiring entrepreneurs as possible to celebrate their success and hopefully inspire others who may be considering starting their own business, showing them that it is a viable option for anyone – regardless of background, gender or race.
So, if you know a business founder who you think deserves recognition for their work over the last year, then get in touch with Andy’s office at [email protected] or fill out the survey at www.andycarter.org.uk/campaigns/entrepreneur-awards.
Commenting on the awards, Andy said: “This is great initiative that’s been setup by Octopus Group and comes at an absolutely critical time for small businesses. Not a lot of people know but Warrington has one of the highest rates of start-up companies outside of London, we have a lot of potential and we need to keep the entrepreneurial spirit going as we get through this pandemic.
“As a small business owner myself before entering Parliament, I know how challenging it can be first setting out, building your contacts, dealing with suppliers, and of course managing your own books. If you are an entrepreneur or know someone who has set out recently and should be recognised for their success, please do get in touch or fill out a nomination form at www.andycarter.org.uk/campaigns/entrepreneur-awards.”
Chris Hulatt, Founder of Octopus, commented: “Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the economy and during the pandemic many businesses have sprung up and many have pivoted to deal with the extraordinary circumstances. As the UK looks to build back better through 2021, these small businesses will be vital to create the jobs that will be needed. The awards are a great way to celebrate local entrepreneurs with their MPs and highlight some of the brilliant work they have been doing.
“As a company that works closely with many entrepreneurs, we’re excited to be able to help recognise some of the brilliant work that is being done across the nation and I very much look forward to seeing the entries.”
