Have you set up a new business in Inverness?

The Highland Business Women Awards is making a spectacular return again this year, and it is a fabulous opportunity to recognise female powerhouses across the region.

With a variety of categories to put entries into, there is something for everyone to be applauded for.

A returning category in 2023 is the new business of the year award, which celebrates the latest enterprising ideas in the Highlands.

The award is being sponsored once again by Business Gateway Highland, as it is passionate about supporting the new ventures that women head-up.

Start-up co-ordinator Dianne Swanepoel from Business Gateway Highland said: “We were delighted that the number of new businesses in Highland last year reached an all-time high, with 58 per cent of them headed up by women.

“Our start-up grants have supported new businesses, but we also acknowledge that, while the economy is still challenging, the entrepreneurial enthusiasm from women in business has not dampened, so we’re delighted to be sponsoring the new business award.”

Last year’s new business of the year award winner was Kennedy Accountancy which is based in Kyle. It was set up by Karen Kennedy who is passionate about supporting service-based sectors in the Highlands.

Her entrepreneurial spirit and ability to fill a gap in the market was one of the many reasons that she won last year’s category.

If you are interested in putting yourself forward for this category then you can find more details and application forms at: www.hbw.scot/awards

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 2 July.

The awards ceremony will take place at the Macdonald Drumossie Hotel on Thursday, August 24.

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