About the Awards

“There is no question in my mind that our nation’s small businesses will lead the way out of recession, and that the creativity, innovation, dynamism and sheer will to win that small businesses demonstrate serves as an example to their larger neighbours. NFEA, the national enterprise network, has member organisations delivering business support to new and emerging businesses up and down the country and we are constantly inspired by the success stories coming out of the small business community. HSBC Start-Up Stars is a great initiative and a great opportunity and I send my best wishes to all the entrants.”

George Derbyshire
NFEA Chief Executive

“The importance of these Awards cannot be overstated.

“These latest Awards come at a time when society is questioning where economic growth will come from.

“It is the view of the BCC that it will have to be business that drives the economy over the coming years. We will need more businesses, more start-ups and a real emphasis on business growth. A focus on Enterprise will be required in every region and part of the UK.

“These HSBC Start-Up Star Awards recognise the success of entrepreneurs across the country, vital at a time when so much is being asked of the business community. The British Chambers of Commerce is only too pleased to support this celebration of business achievement.”

David Frost
Director-General
British Chambers of Commerce

“The Forum of Private Business is pleased to support HSBC’s Start-Up Star Awards. It is important we recognise just how crucial starting and growing new businesses can be for the UK’s economic wellbeing – in celebrating the achievements of start-up businesses these awards acknowledge exactly that.

“Regardless of whether it is a budding entrepreneur starting a business for the first time or an established business owner, getting a company off the ground is rarely easy.

“That is why the Forum is committed to supporting small businesses in a variety of ways, and why it is backing these four awards, which collectively recognise the value of UK entrepreneurship.”

“As the UK’s leading business organisation, the Federation of Small Businesses is delighted to be associated with this year’s HSBC Start-Up Stars awards. The UK economy is going through a difficult phase and we all need to support, encourage and inspire as many people as possible to set-up, run and grow their own business. There are over 4.8 million small businesses, employing over 13 million workers. Such impressive figures must be continually added to and HSBC is to be congratulated in recognising and running these awards, now in their 10th year. Awards like this are highly motivating not just to the winners but to all who enter - Good Luck!”

John Walker
National Chairman
Federation of Small Businesses

“Britain has long been known and admired for its enterprise and entrepreneurial behaviour - and the economy is going to need even more of this as we recover from the recession. The sort of talent, innovation and commitment displayed by those entering the Start-Up Stars Awards is testimony to what can be achieved. The Awards are a brilliant way of showcasing ideas and raising the profile of your company with potential investors, customers and suppliers. So good luck to everyone who enters - this could be just the stepping stone you need.”

Richard Lambert
Director-General, CBI