Celebrating Enterprise 2019 Awards
— The Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) and the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI) hosts the Celebrating Enterprise Awards 2019.
— A prestigious event recognising outstanding endeavour in enterprise learning & skills.
— Baron Bird MBE receives Lifetime Achievement Award for dedication to enterprise.
Key figures from the small business, enterprise and skills sector in the UK gathered at the House of Lords on Thursday 3rd October to celebrate the very best in enterprise learning and skills.
The annual awards, hosted by the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) and the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI), brings together representatives from small businesses, further education, higher education, business organisations, the banking sector and government to celebrate those individuals that are making a difference to the small business landscape through enterprise skills development, mentoring and championing UK enterprise.
Marston’s Telecoms is the Headline Sponsor for the Celebrating Enterprise Awards 2019
This sponsorship builds on a long-established relationship that has seen SFEDI and the IOEE working together closely with Marston’s Telecoms. Marston’s Telecoms are dedicated to supporting small and medium businesses across the UK.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Baron Bird MBE. This prestigious award was created by the institute to honour individuals who have made a significant contribution to enterprise and entrepreneurship.
In 1991 Baron Bird MBE launched the Big Issue in response to the growing number of rough sleepers on the streets of London. He believed that the key to solving the problem of homelessness lay in helping people to help themselves. This innovative idea has helped turn thousands of homeless people into micro-entrepreneurs. The magazine now forms part of The Big Issue Group, along with an investment arm which has invested over £30m into social enterprises and charities in the past 13 years.
John gave an impassioned speech and his commitment was clear for all to see, ensuring all individuals are provided with equal opportunities regardless of their background or beginning.
Other award winners included the Royal Agricultural University who were recognised as the Enterprising Learning Provider of the Year. Charles Cracknell was awarded Enterprise Support Champion for his role in supporting entrepreneurs in the North of England and being a founding partner of the Youth Enterprise Bank.
Sarah Trouten, Chief Executive, Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs
“I am delighted to be able to recognise the work of John Bird MBE. John shares our vision for creating a better society based upon creating opportunities for all no matter what background or circumstance.”
Notes
— The SFEDI Group is the Government recognised Sector Skills Organisation for enterprise and business support. Established in 1996, it has earned recognition as the source of expertise on skills and knowhow for the development of small, medium and micro businesses. The group includes SFEDI, SFEDI Awards, SFEDI Solutions and the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE).
— The IOEE (www.ioee.uk) is the first learning institute dedicated to developing and recognising the skills of enterprising people. It supports enterprise professionals in developing their skills & knowledge to a high standard to provide outstanding enterprise support.
— SFEDI and the IOEE hosted the Celebrating Enterprise event at the House of Lords on Thursday 3rd October from 15:30 until 17:00. The event brought together small businesses and representatives from business organisations from across the UK to celebrate everything that is great about Enterprise & Enterprising skills.
— There were 8 award categories.
o Enterprising Learner of the Year
o Enterprise Educator of the Year
o Enterprise Support Champion
o Intrapreneur of the Year
o IOEE Member of the Year
o Enterprising Learning Provider of the Year
o Special Recognition Award
o Lifetime Achievement Award