While we’re yet to see the full impact of the pandemic, we’re officially in a recession – one unlikely to end as fast as it arrived. Yet, last year, there were more entries to Wales Start-Up Awards than ever before. The calibre of the applications was really impressive; the bar has been raised again. It was just such a shame that we couldn’t meet all the applicants in person.
This reflects the talent and determination of Welsh entrepreneurs, who have shown remarkable resilience and creativity since the start of the crisis. They are the driving force of our economy and will play an essential role in “building back better”. But to start up and scale up successfully despite the downturn, they need the help of the entire business community.
That’s why, for the fourth consecutive year, we sponsor these awards: to give Welsh start-ups the opportunity to be recognised and connected, and to strengthen our country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem at this critical time. I can’t wait to discover this year’s applicants’ inspiring stories, and to read all about their achievements and ambitions.
Last year, the overall Wales Start-Up of the Year award in 2020 was won by Project Blu, a new business based in the Vale of Glamorgan that is revolutionising the pet accessories market by transforming polluting materials (and apple skins!) into top quality pet products including dog beds, collars, leashes and toys. Despite the challenges of Covid, Project Blu is going from strength to strength globally, with particularly impressive expansion in the United States!
This year, two new awards categories have been introduced: the Prince’s Trust Cymru Start-Up of the Year for those young people that have been on the charity’s enterprise programmes; and the High Street Start-Up of the Year, which will recognise the achievements of those new firms having an impact on high streets across the towns and cities of Wales.
Entries close on 31st May, and the awards will be held at the Depot in Cardiff on 9th September. I hope to see you there!
To apply or find out more, please click here.
