Eleven individuals who have made outstanding contributions towards encouraging entrepreneurship this week received recognition for their efforts at The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise Promotion (QAEP).
Winners included successful entrepreneurs, directors of charities, social enterprises, business development agencies and national enterprise promotion bodies.
Organisers said the winners have collectively inspired and supported thousands of business start-ups around the UK, frequently helping to regenerate deprived areas.
The ceremony, which was attended by His Royal Highness the Duke of York, was held in London on Tuesday.
Award winners, who must be nominated by others, will be invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace later in the summer.
An honorary award went to Dr. Nicholas O’Shiel, who the organisers said has been actively involved in enterprise programmes for disadvantaged communities, women and young people in Northern Ireland.
Sally Arkley, managing director of the Women’s Business Development Agency and one of the winners, said she was thrilled to receive the award.
“I think this award gives due recognition of the achievements of our clients, the hard work of the Women’s Business Development Agency team and the help from our supporters.
“Although giving a lead in Europe, the UK still lags significantly behind the US in terms of women-run enterprises, and I think what we are doing shows what can be done to raise the level of female entrepreneurship,” she said.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the winners have played a vital role in helping to unlock Britain’s entrepreneurial talent.
“They have given their time and energy to equip others with the skills, knowledge and attitude to succeed as entrepreneurs. I applaud and admire their efforts,” he said.
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008
