Prize packages revealed that take Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards to next level

University of Hull, For Entrepreneurs Only, Wilkin Chapman and Fred Marketing among  supporters aiming to further success for 2024 cohort 

Winners of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards are to receive far more than a  trophy and the kudos of a proud city. 

For the first time in the event’s history tailored packages of prizes are being assembled to  help successful companies and their leaders further excel. 

Organisers Simon Jones and Jane Smallwood have secured significant backing, worth tens  of thousands of pounds, to deliver vital support. Those pledging early in the process  include University of Hull, For Entrepreneurs Only, leading regional law firm Wilkin  Chapman and marketing consultancy Fred. 

The potential to make a lasting impact was a key element in Mr Jones’ decision to take the  baton on, building on his success with Top 30 Under 30. “The actual celebration event is a  calendar highlight, and will rightly remain so,” he said. “I always felt there was more that  could be done, that there was an opportunity to really help shape further success, and with  a strong line-up of partners, that is exactly what we’re aiming to do.” 

At University of Hull, professional development, management coaching, innovation  support, resources and event space is being offered up to winners in a variety of packages. 

Emma Calverley, director of Knowledge Exchange, said: “The University of Hull has been a  long-term supporter of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards and the opportunity to  enhance this in a new era for the event is something we really welcome. 

“Alongside our fantastic offering to students is an incredible range of business programmes, tailored to those looking to improve all elements of a company’s performance as well as individual skill sets. This opportunity to showcase what is here in  Hull, for the benefit of Hull, is a perfect fit for our ethos.” 

Winning businesses will also benefit from full access to the For Entrepreneurs Only  network, the support organisation set up by business leaders across Hull and East  Yorkshire. It runs events and peer-led programmes designed to aid the development of  businesses and individuals.  

Jan Brumby, chief executive, said: “What FEO is all about, our strapline in fact, is helping  businesses to start, adapt, and grow. Quite simply, the more private businesses set up and  expand, the more the local economy will benefit from that. 

“Our members have so much to offer, they’ve been through the challenges, the highs and  the lows that being in business brings, and we’re delighted to embrace the successful  individuals emerging from these re-energised awards and welcome them in to our  network.” 

James Marsden, partner at Wilkin Chapman and head of the firm’s Beverley office, said:  “We’re delighted to be in a position to help ensure a legacy emerges from this excellent  event. As a law firm with a strong presence in the region, representing private and  commercial clients, we really see the value in nurturing further success.” 

Fred will provide marketing consultations for winning businesses in fitting categories.  Emma Pearson-Kendall, managing director of the Hull-based firm, said: “Having been  involved in the launch of a new chapter for these fantastic awards, we’re thrilled to now  play a part in the wider development of the winners, bringing expertise from our work with  businesses of all sizes and in many sectors.” 

Entries remain open for the awards, set to be revealed at a gala dinner hosted by city-born  actor Debra Stephenson, at Hull’s DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on November 21. A deadline  of September 29 has been set, with a dozen categories to consider.  

Connexin is confirmed as headline partner, with Bondholders, C3 Group, East Riding of  Yorkshire Council, For Entrepreneurs Only, Fred Marketing, GW Power-Safe, Horncastle  Group, Hull City Council, MKM, Sewell Group, University of Hull and Wilkin Chapman also  on board. Principal media partner is Reach Plc - publisher of Hull Live, Business Live and  the Hull Daily Mail. 

For further information visit www.heybusinessawards.co.uk.