Seven-figure support for West Yorkshire entrepreneurs to build global businesses

Entrepreneurs across the region will benefit from a new multi-million-pound fund to help them launch services and products made in West Yorkshire to sell to the world.

As part of the Mayor of West Yorkshire’s £6m fund for entrepreneurs, a third round of support has been launched today (July 6). The programme aims to find the best and the brightest minds in the region, nurture their entrepreneurial skills, and turn their ideas into global businesses.

With access to nine months of tailored support, coaching and mentoring, 75 creative minds will develop fresh business ideas and grow the skills they need to become successful entrepreneurs.

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, commented: “I’m committed to providing opportunities for everyone in West Yorkshire to pursue their goals, whatever their circumstances. We have already helped thousands by giving them the skills they need to start and run their own successful business.

“Now, we will focus on the best and the brightest minds in the region, catapulting them to the next level and turning their entrepreneurial ideas into the global businesses of the future. Our talented entrepreneurs are absolutely central to our vision for a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.”

Cllr Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council and Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Business, Economy and Innovation Committee, added: “I’m delighted we’re able to provide support of this quality to individuals and businesses who have the potential to drive forward their innovative ideas.

“Equipping the entrepreneurs of West Yorkshire with the skills they need to succeed will not just improve their personal circumstances. It will boost our regional economy through the creation of more high-skilled jobs and greater inward investment.

“We’re building a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire where everyone can reach their full potential, and that includes our brilliant entrepreneurs with local solutions to global challenges.”

This support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, will be delivered in partnership by a twelve member-strong group of businesses and learning organisations from across the region.

Of these, Nexus and the University of Leeds will head the group, using their “world-class” facilities and expertise to incubate the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs. Together, they will focus on tackling the regional, national and global challenges of the future.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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