October 2009 - BIC STARS PERFORM SWEEP AT AWARDS CEREMONY
The North East BIC’s reputation as a breeding ground for the region’s best business talent was highlighted last week, as entrepreneurs who are based with or receive assistance from the organisation claimed 5 of 12 Portfolio Awards at the Sunderland Echo’s prestigious annual event.
At the Ceremony, which was held at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on 15th October, BIC-based IT company Heridian picked up the Business Idea of the Year award for an impressive first 12 months in which the company has made inroads towards become a global service provider.
The judges commented: “This Wearside IT company, still in its first year of operation, has already gained global recognition for its unique product which gives medical professionals in remote areas access to advice and opinion in any number of medical fields.”
The Technology award was later presented to Shaun MacIntosh and Clare Head, Directors of winning company FS Design, also based at the BIC.
“A Wearside company that proves persistence, creativity and exemplary service reaps rewards,” said the Judges.
The year’s most hotly-contested category, Small Business of the Year, was awarded to BIC-based PR agency Press Ahead.
The judges commended Press Ahead on establishing itself as “a leading player in its field, both in the city and on a wider stage”, adding that “it has grown its reputation by continually exceeding the expectations of its many clients, from Wearside and beyond.”
RUSSELL BORTHWICK (RIGHT), PRESS AHEAD MANAGING
DIRECTOR, COLLECTS HIS AWARD FROM PAUL MCELDON
As well as the three companies above, which are all based on site at the BIC, two entrepreneurs who have established their businesses via the organisation’s start up services were honoured.
Gareth Brazier, who consulted with BIC advisers before taking control of clothing enterprise Rare Ape, was named Young Business Person of the Year.
“The clear sense of direction and energy this company has used in establishing its brand, quickly transforming a failing business into one which is now looking to expand across the region, couldn’t help but impress,” said the judges.
The Entrepreneur of the Year award, which honours exceptional figures who demonstrate inspirational leadership, was presented to David Lynch, who set up his company Lynch Healthcare two years ago, with assistance from BIC business advisers and product development division Design Right Solutions (DRS).
“The entrepreneurial spirit of our winner was obvious for all to see,” said the judges.
Paul McEldon, Chief Executive of the North East BIC, says: “Once again we were delighted to sponsor the Small Business of the Year category at the Portfolio awards. Moreover, I was extremely proud to see so many BIC-associated companies collecting their awards, for which they were all most deserved.
“We believe that small businesses are not only the lifeblood of our organisation, but that of the whole regional economy. There has never been a better time to celebrate our local entrepreneurs and home grown companies.”
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