Prize packages revealed for Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
Winners of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards are to receive far more than a trophy and the kudos of a proud city.
For the first time in the event’s history tailored packages of prizes are being assembled to help successful companies and their leaders further excel.
Organisers Simon Jones and Jane Smallwood have secured significant backing, worth tens of thousands of pounds, to deliver vital support. Those pledging early in the process include University of Hull, For Entrepreneurs Only, leading regional law firm Wilkin Chapman and marketing consultancy Fred.
The potential to make a lasting impact was a key element in Mr Jones’ decision to take the baton on, building on his success with Top 30 Under 30.
NEW ERA: Emma Calverley
“The actual celebration event is a calendar highlight, and will rightly remain so,” he said. “I always felt there was more that could be done, that there was an opportunity to really help shape further success, and with a strong line-up of partners, that is exactly what we’re aiming to do.”
At the University of Hull, professional development, management coaching, innovation support, resources and event space is being offered up to winners in a variety of packages.
Emma Calverley, director of knowledge exchange, said: “The University of Hull has been a long-term supporter of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards and the opportunity to enhance this in a new era for the event is something we really welcome.
“Alongside our fantastic offering to students is an incredible range of business programmes, tailored to those looking to improve all elements of a company’s performance as well as individual skill sets. This opportunity to showcase what is here in Hull, for the benefit of Hull, is a perfect fit for our ethos.”
HELPING BUSINESSES: Jan Brumby
Winning businesses will also benefit from full access to the For Entrepreneurs Only network, the support organisation set up by business leaders across Hull and East Yorkshire. It runs events and peer-led programmes designed to aid the development of businesses and individuals.
Jan Brumby, chief executive, said: “What FEO is all about, our strapline in fact, is helping businesses to start, adapt, and grow. Quite simply, the more private businesses set up and expand, the more the local economy will benefit from that.
“Our members have so much to offer, they’ve been through the challenges, the highs and the lows that being in business brings, and we’re delighted to embrace the successful individuals emerging from these re-energised awards and welcome them in to our network.”
James Marsden, partner at Wilkin Chapman and head of the firm’s Beverley office, said: “We’re delighted to be in a position to help ensure a legacy emerges from this excellent event. As a law firm with a strong presence in the region, representing private and commercial clients, we really see the value in nurturing further success.”
DELIGHTED TO HELP: James Marsden
Fred will provide marketing consultations for winning businesses in fitting categories. Emma Pearson-Kendall, managing director of the Hull-based firm, said: “Having been involved in the launch of a new chapter for these fantastic awards, we’re thrilled to now play a part in the wider development of the winners, bringing expertise from our work with businesses of all sizes and in many sectors.”
Entries remain open for the awards, set to be revealed at a gala dinner hosted by city-born actor Debra Stephenson, at Hull’s DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on November 21. A deadline of September 29 has been set, with a dozen categories to consider.
This year’s categories are:
Outstanding Contribution / Lifetime Achievement Award
Start-Up Business of the Year (Less than two years old)
Small Business of the Year (Less than 50 employees)
Best Place to Work
Environmental & Sustainability Award
Charity of the Year
Innovation Award
Entrepreneur of the Year
Team of the Year
Large Business of the Year
Growth Award
Rising Star
THRILLED TO PLAY A PART: Emma Pearson-Kendall
Full details of how to enter and the criteria for each category can be found on the new website.