Calling young businesses

Dragon’s Den judge Deborah Meaden is also backing the major Local Business Accelerators campaign - spearheaded by the voice of the local media, The Newspaper Society.

Your Worksop Guardian is one of 500 local press publications who are joining forces to promote the strength and value of local newspaper for local businesses and communities.

Together, we will search for the area’s most promising young business and help them accelerate their success with top professional advice from local business mentors, plus a substantial allocation of FREE advertising space in The Worksop Guardian.

What’s more, one lucky business picked from hundreds of regional winners will receive individual consultation and mentoring sessions from LBA ambassador Deborah Meaden for one year.

Nigel is no stranger to successfully carving his own business niche, after expanding North Notts Arena to cater for the whole community since he took it over six years ago.

“I am really excited to be involved in the Local Business Accelerators and have had a real passion for the Worksop Guardian which goes back many years,” he said.

“We’re currently in a very tough financial climate but there are many up-and-coming businesses in the area who are finding success and who deserve to be recognised.”

“You have got to be on the ball to be a success - it’s about knowing your clientele, having good ideas and being diverse and open-minded with your customers.

Deborah Meaden said she has seen the unique contribution the local press makes to the success of local businesses.

“In this age of enterprise it has never been more important to drive awareness about the value of local marketing for a fledgling business, which is why I’m so proud to support Local Business Accelerators and help build thriving and industrious communities,” she said.

Newspaper Society president Geraldine Allison said: “The UK needs to grow local businesses like never before, and local businesses need local press.

“No other medium has the power, local knowledge and influence to activate a scheme like Local Business Accelerators. It’s where local newspapers have always made a real difference: by helping to build strong local businesses and encourage thriving communities.”

This week the Worksop Guardian is launching its search - open to all businesses that are active in the local community, between one and three years old and full of potential.

They may have a great idea or product, or even have found a new market. They’re the kind of businesses that will create new jobs and individually they will create pride in the community.

n If you run such a business, or know anyone who does, and want the chance to receive valuable business support and advertising space in the Worksop Guardian, visit www.accelerateme.co.uk for more information on the scheme and how to enter. Entries close 14th November 2011.

Please also email [email protected] or call 01909 543017 for more information on the contest.

Nigel Turner and Worksop Guardian editor Chris Burton will form the judging panel and will review and shortlist entries before awarding the prize of free advertising and business advice.

They’ll also be looking out for that one overall star business to put forward to be in with a chance to gain Deborah Meaden as a mentor during 2012.