News: Isopharm acquired

Entrepreneur, Andrew Kemp, has overseen the acquisition of his software business that started life being nurtured through its crucial early stages in Rotherham.

Software firm, CODE, recently completed the acquisition of Sheffield-based Isopharm, a specialist provider of knowledge, training and products to those conducting the decontamination of medical products. The acquisition brings together a market leading compliance platform with the largest provider of online CPD for dental practitioners, creating a market leader in dental compliance.

Back in 1999 Andrew developed his business idea of a computerised temperature monitoring system for checking the performance of sterilising equipment used in hospitals and other medical establishments. Its validation systems and software offerings became the benchmark solution for healthcare engineers carrying out testing on decontamination equipment.

From his office in his parents' home, then-called Sentry Products Ltd, found help from Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), who offered him grant-aided rented space at its Treeton Youth Business Support Centre. Further support, development and growth saw the business move into premises at Maltby.

In 2005 the business was able to make a reverse take-over of another company, Isopharm, operating in the same field and this soon required another change of premises.

As a result, the business moved to a business complex in the grounds of Sandbeck Park at Firbeck. Another move followed to Parkgate but in 2016, it outgrew its Rotherham offices and moved to a site in Sheffield.

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Investment firm, August Equity completed the acquisition of CODE in 2019 and following four years of dialogue between Isopharm and August Equity, a deal was concluded earlier this year.

Andrew Kemp, founder of Isopharm, said: "CODE is the perfect platform for the next stage of innovative solutions we had planned at Isopharm; we are delighted to be joining forces”.

James Bakewell, director at August Equity and CODE, added: "We are thrilled to have been able to unite CODE and Isopharm to create a highly unique and strategic compliance-focussed business in a market that offers significant opportunity. The combination of software-led compliance solutions and online training to the healthcare market is exciting – a market that’s undergoing a technology-focussed structural shift. We are extremely excited about combining the businesses and working closely with Andrew and the team at Isopharm."

August Equity raised its 5th fund, of £309m, in January 2020, enabling the continuation of its strategy to invest in high growth, exciting businesses.

Isopharm website

Images: Isopharm

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News: Flats plan for former business centre

A former enterprise centre in a Rotherham village could be converted from business units to flats, if recently submitted plans are approved.

The Enterprise Centre / Treeton Youth Centre has been vacant since the authority agreed to cut the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) service in 2018. It was most recently used by RYE for its staff and to offer start up premises to fledgling Rotherham businesses.

Originally built in circa 1887 as an infant school, the 6,445 sq ft building includes five workshops, five offices, a large hall and outside space.

The property sold for £280,000 at auction at the end of 2019 and now plans have been submitted that would see the conversion of the existing buildings to 14 apartments/dwellings.

Applicants, Century Grove Ltd, say that the conversion would provide 11 x one bed apartments and 3 x two-bedroom apartments on Front Street / Station Road utilising the existing access from Church Lane.

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Whilst not a listed building, the former Youth Enterprise Centre is located within the Treeton Conservation Area.

The plans, drawn up by Building Design Concepts Ltd state that: "The conversion would take place within the shell of the existing building, utilising all existing openings as far as possible. There would be no demolition of any parts of the existing buildings, and no extensions."

The centre was a number of assets sold off via Pugh Auctions by Rotherham Council. The former St Ann's building on the edge of Rotherham town centre sold for £91,000 from a guide price of £100,000 plus.

Rothbiz reported in 2018 that Rotherham Council was asking for expressions of interest in the vacant property and three proposals were received.

Dating back to the 1800's, St Ann's Road Board School opened a new boy's department in 1893 on the corner of St Leonard's Road. Providing accommodation for 244 children, the stone building includes a 45 ft bell tower above the main entrance. It was also previously used as an annexe of the Rotherham College of Arts and Technology.

The Council's former Erskine Road depot sold for £100,000.

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News: Former Rotherham enterprise centre up for sale

A former enterprise centre and a historic school building are two assets being sold off at auction next month by Rotherham Council.

The Enterprise Centre / Treeton Youth Centre has been vacant since the authority agreed to cut the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) service last year. It was most recently used by RYE for its staff and to offer start up premises to fledgling Rotherham businesses.

Originally built in circa 1887 as an infant school, the 6,445 sq ft building includes five workshops, five offices, a large hall and outside space. Under the Local Plan the land is allocated as residential.

Expressions of interest were requested at the start of 2019 but the building has now been given a guide price of £150,000 plus with Pugh Auctions and is set to go under the hammer at an event in Leeds next month.

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At the same auction, the former St Ann's building on the edge of Rotherham town centre is also available to buy, with a guide price of £100,000 plus.

Dating back to the 1800's, St Ann's Road Board School opened a new boy's department in 1893 on the corner of St Leonard's Road. Providing accommodation for 244 children, the stone building includes a 45 ft bell tower above the main entrance.

Rothbiz reported last year that Rotherham Council was asking for expressions of interest in the vacant property which was also previously used as an annexe of the Rotherham College of Arts and Technology.

Three proposals were received by the Council but the property now looks to be going to the highest bidder at auction.

A sale private treaty would have included a "buyback" clause giving the Council an option to repurchase the site in the future ensuring that the asset is utilised rather than remaining vacant and derelict.

The building was previously let to the Unity Centre Rotherham by way of an asset transfer lease although the property has remained vacant for some 15 years. Unity Centre occupies the neighbouring buildings of the former girls school where it runs a community centre.

Due to lack of progress with refurbishment of the property, the Council served notice on the tenant to terminate the lease last year and regain possession with disposal in mind.

Also at the same auction, the authority is looking to dispose of the former Erskine Road depot, a former caretakers bungalow at Swinton and various parcels of land.

Pugh Auctions website

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News: Young entrepreneurs giving high street a heartbeat

Rotherham-based young entrepreneur Jordan Mangnall is one of a number of young people that are committed to reviving Rotherham town centre.

Aged 20, Jordan opened Jaded Heart on Moorgate Street in March 2017 and has since launched over 170 products including exclusives from Bomb Cosmetics as well as clothing, alchemy and jewellery ranges. Jordan plans to introduce a further 80 products to the store to mark a period of strong growth and significant increases in both sales and footfall.

Jordan was as runner up of Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2017, alongside neighbour Tom Ridgeway of Cutthroats Barbershop. The main award was won by another town centre based entrepreneur - Emily Dawson from the Holy Ghost Tattoo Collective.

An advocate of bringing life back to the high street, Jordan describes the past eighteen months as being "a whirlwind of emotions" following a period of extreme anxiety and depression, during which the business idea was born.

From starting off as a solo entrepreneur pursuing a passion, Jordan has grown the business considerably to date having received a grant from the UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE) Kickstart Fund. The retailer has recently introduced loyalty cards for her mounting customer base and will be attending the upcoming Rotherham Show to display her impressive range of products.

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Jordan Mangall, founder of Jaded Heart, said: "I have always had a passion for aromatherapy and relaxation products and as a teenager I would spend all of my pocket money on bath bombs and candles. I discovered whenever I was feeling anxious and needed to relax, the first thing I would do was run a bath and fill it with any product I could find!

"My business has been founded on bringing a sense of relaxation in times of need, and I really can’t quite believe how it has taken off. I never could have imagined that within my first year of trading I'd be shortlisted as Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year and nominated for a Yorkshire Choice Award, let alone becoming a major stockist of a global brand!"

The UKSE Kickstart Fund was launched with support from RIDO and Rotherham Youth Enterprise and is dedicated to supporting people looking to establish a business in the local area.

Allan Wood from UK Steel Enterprise, said: "It's uplifting to see the success that Jaded Heart has achieved in such a short space of time after receiving a grant from the UKSE Kickstart Fund.

"Testament to Jordan's perseverance, dedication and overall business acumen, I have no doubt that the future of Jaded Heart will be a prosperous one."

Jaded Heart website
UKSE website

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News: Enterprising Rotherham students continue to make £5 blossom

Budding young business leaders at Laughton Junior and Infant School have notched up more than £750 in profits so far to help fund a lollipop person outside their school.

A business loan from AESSEAL of £150 - £5 to each child in Year Six - set the ball rolling for students who took up the challenge to "Make £5 Blossom."

With its global headquarters at Templeborough, the £150m turnover company manufactures mechanical seals for a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals.

Make £5 Blossom is an initiative run by Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), which encourages students to take the lead in turning a business idea into a profit-making venture, while learning important skills for the future such as team work, creativity, negotiation, leadership and problem solving.

Laughton students worked together to invest their loan in a range of fundraising activities, including a Christmas fair, to transform their investment.

They had an extra incentive for raising vital funds – the school hopes to continue to fund the crossing patrol on the busy main road outside as it no longer receives the service from Rotherham Council.

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Enterprising students were invited to the company's Rotherham site and heard how founder and managing director Chris Rea started AESSEAL in 1979 with a staff of just five, and how continued investment in people, product development, plant and equipment has created a company that employs over 1700 people in 230 locations worldwide, supplying customers in 104 countries.

The students got some hands-on experience of building a mechanical seal before being taken on a tour of the state-of-the-art factory.

Laughton teacher Dave Chambers said: "What an incredible visit! The children were so enthused about both their enterprise projects and the company and factory. Many were captivated by the growth of the company and are now considering owning their own businesses and/or becoming engineers."

After their visit, the students each wrote a letter to AESSEAL thanking them for the factory visit. One student even wrote: "This visit impacted me: now I want to become an engineer."

Julia Bloomer, learning and development manager at AESSEAL said: "Running a business involves a lot of different skills, not least team work, commitment and a constant desire to learn new things. These are skills that you're never too young to learn and the Laughton classmates should be proud of raising such a healthy profit from their business venture.

"It's great to hear that they came away from this partnership with a better knowledge of the people and skills that make up a successful business, and also with greater enthusiasm and aspiration for their own future careers, with many of them being inspired to become engineers and/or work at AESSEAL in the future."

AESSEAL website

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News: Rotherham Council set to approve budget

Rotherham Council is set to approve its latest budget at a full council meeting this week as it looks to make £15.1m of budget savings in the next financial year.

The focus has been on identifying "efficiency savings" and also on maximising income generation opportunities in order to minimise the impact on front line services to the public.

A report to the council states: "Over the last seven years from 2011/12 to 2017/18, the Council has had to make ongoing savings of £162m, mainly as a result of the financial reductions imposed on local government as part of the Government's austerity programme."

Budgets have been stretched further by the Governance improvements required and implemented since the Jay and Casey reports of 2014 and 2015 and with the increasing demand on social care services.

The authority admits that it is not possible to commit to future delivery of the full range of services currently provided.

The Council does say that it will remain a key lever for growth and investment in Rotherham and the wider Sheffield City Region and one key focus is to "drive inclusive growth and ensure Rotherham's residents are connected to local good quality job opportunities."

The current proposed revenue budget for 2018/19 is £216.876m and the Capital Programme includes £425m of capital investment over the five years 2017/18 to 2021/22. If approved, Council Tax will increase by 5.99%.

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The capital investment strategy is targeting critical infrastructure and housing, and there is a focus on strategic development projects / sites including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District; widening the network of Business Incubation Centres and driving the pace of the Town centre masterplan with the Forge Island development.

Along with adopting a more commercial, outward facing approach, the hope is that the investment will boost income to the Council through the New Homes Bonus, Council Tax income and retained Business Rates.

Income generation is expected from projects such as the £4.7m Beighton Link investment and the new £4.7m camping and caravan park at Rother Valley Country Park.

The regeneration team is tasked with working to attract investment and new business, while ensuring that the borough's existing businesses receive the support they need to grow and make further investment. This is likely to focus on integrated transport, housing, vocational skills and good quality green spaces and cultural offer.

As previously reported by Rothbiz, the Rotherham Youth Enterprise service is under threat with budget proposals set to cut the team down to two staff.

The capital strategy includes projects such as the £4.6m revamp of College Road Roundabout where the Council is set to provide match funding of £1.390m. £1.312m has also been set aside for much-need repairs to Crinoline Bridge.

Other projects include the £42m planned to widen the Parkway, the £9.8m Waverley Link Road, £16m to invest in the town centre, and a £5m Growth Fund to support businesses.

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "It is an incredibly challenging time for local government across the piece. Some of the numbers we have seen nationally over the last few weeks bear witness to the challenge that all councils are facing at this time of austerity and at a time of growing demand for both adults and children's social care.

"All those factors come together to place pressure on authorities like ours so we are prioritising protecting both adults and children's social care in this budget. That does mean that there is an impact then on other non-social care budgets.

"We are also trying to move towards more revenue generating activities, particularly around regen and environment, and lots and lots of activity is taking place, particularly in finance, around how else we can best finance that budget in order to protect frontline services."

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News: Rotherham Youth Enterprise under threat

Tailored business support for young people in Rotherham could be coming to an end after Rotherham Council put forward proposals to cut the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) service.

Sitting within Rotherham Council's over-spending Children and Young People's Services directorate, RYE provides self-employment support and advice for young adults in the area. They encourage young people (up to the age of 30) to explore business ideas and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be their own boss.

Dating back to 1986, RYE has been credited with helping to achieve some of the highest business survival rates in the UK. In particular, it offers favourable business incubation rates and accommodation for start-ups in the town, as well as tailored business coaching for young entrepreneurs.

The service was traditionally wholly grant funded but constant Government cuts in recent years has seen Rotherham Council use revenue funding to keep the valuable service going.

The team currently employs seven staff and proposals have come forward as part of the Council's budget setting for 2018/19 to cut the team down to two staff. Initial proposals were for the service to cease completely, saving the authority around £180,000.

The remaining staff would be responsible for careers and enterprise which includes pioneering work on creating an Enterprise Adviser Network to connect schools and colleges with employers in meaningful ways.

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RYE has been closely linked to the award-winning Rotherham Ready programme which launched in 2005 and set out to transform attitudes and achievement amongst local school children, by introducing enterprise and entrepreneurship into their schools' curriculum.

Rotherham Ready, which has since grown into a social enterprise, and Rotherham Youth Enterprise, played leading roles in Rotherham being named The Most Enterprising Place in Britain by the Government's Department for Business Innovation and Skills in 2010.

Jackie Frost, the manager of the project, was awarded with the Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion in 2009.

Cllr. Gordon Watson, deputy leader of Rotherham Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "The leader [Cllr. Chris Read] has taken an interest in this, and having discussed with RiDO, there are synergies between this youth enterprise and the enterprise advice that RiDO give. Obviously it must be very similar advice, you don't go for advice at 24 and a half and six months later it is a completely different set of advice.

"It was believed that there would be a useful point in keeping a small part of this service. This also keeps part of the grant from central Government. Over the years this service was supported by Government grants that have been chipped away and we have continued to support it.

"It has been an award-winning service, it has done good things. It's not like we are saying, "if you take this away, you won't notice anything." It's just that we have got certain statuary obligations as a local authority and this is not statutory."

The responsibility to provide statuary careers advice was transferred away from local councils to the schools themselves around five years ago.

The proposals mean that the support for businesses element of the service would fall to RiDO, the regeneration arm of Rotherham Council, which co-ordinates business support in the borough through the Launchpad and Mighty initiatives and runs four successful business incubation centres.

It is not yet clear what would happen to RYE's centre in Treeton (pictured) or if favourable rates from young businesses will still be available.

RiDO itself earned a reprieve in 2016 budget discussions when £160,000 a year was found for the next three years representing the replacement of lost grant funding with revenue budget.

Ian Thomas, the strategic director of Children's Services at Rotherham Council, was also called in by councillors to explain the proposals to cut five staff from RYE, saving around £130,000. He told them: "I'm a fan of this service because in addition to those ten businesses start ups [each year], thousands of people have been worked with in terms of careers events linking to the business community. The business coaches are really, really good and it has received national acclaim in the past.

"It was grant funded. And it was great when we had the money, but not now."

Rotherham Council has proposed series of budget options for 2018/19, to meet a further funding shortfall of £15m, on top of £162m worth of savings which have already had to be made since 2010.

On the service in the future, Thomas added: "I think that aligning this service with RiDO, with its significant links to business, will give us a fighting chance of ensuring that the young people that have access to these employers can continue to do so.

"The added value for me is about that connectivity with business. Access to the world of work, access to opportunity and experience of workplaces, connecting children with employers early so that they are ready and prepared for that world of work, ensuring that they've got an expansive range of options when they leave education."

When asked about capacity within RiDO to deliver the business support element of RYE, Thomas admitted: "Having spoken to RiDO colleagues in developing this paper, the answer is no, they don't have that scope, or the capacity. They don't work with young people and members will know that RiDO has been cut back successively over the years due to the reduction in Government grant funding."

The Overview and Scrutiny Management Board at Rotherham Council agreed to endorse the proposal to reduce RYE from seven to two staff. The Council will consider its full budget proposals later in the year.

RYE website
RiDO website

Images: RYE / Google Maps

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News: Chamber appoints two new non-executive directors

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce has marked the end of a record year of success by welcoming two new local entrepreneurs to its board.

Matt Travis, the founding director of environmental consultancy Enzygo and Joada Allen-Booth, managing director of video production company Visualised it, will join Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber's board as non-executive directors, where they will be responsible for overseeing the strategic development of the member-led organisation.

The appointments were made after receiving the backing of Chamber members during its recent Annual General Meeting, which took place at Barnsley FC's Oakwell Stadium last week.

Matt Travis founded Enzygo in 2008. The company is responsible for delivering specialist environmental support during complex planning applications and under Matt's leadership the company has grown from just three employees to a workforce of more 60 people operating across sites in Stocksbridge, Manchester and Bristol.

During the past eight years Matt has played an active role in Chamber life, acting as a member of its representation council, as well as heading up its policy and representation working group. At the recent chamber awards, Enzygo's Lucy Cowley was Highly Commended for Apprentice of the Year, and the company won a Business Growth Award.

Former video editor and college lecturer at Rotherham College, Joada Allen-Booth began her own business journey in 2013 with the help of the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) programme. Since launching Visualised it she has produced more than 70 TV adverts and earlier this year was nominated for a prestigious Royal Television Society award.

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The appointments to the board marked a year of success for Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, which saw significant increases in its membership and training support programme.

Andrew Denniff, chief executive at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: "During the past twelve months we have seen the numbers of businesses joining the Chamber increase and have also seen a rise in the number of participants in our training programmes, reflecting the commitment of many local businesses to equip their members of staff with the skills they need to succeed in the workplace. The success we have achieved is testimony to the hard work and dedication of our small but dedicated team of staff and the vision of our president, Lisa Pogson.

"I'm delighted to welcome both Matthew and Joada to our executive board and their knowledge and experience of working as part of the local business community is invaluable. Both have played an active role within the Chamber for a number of years and I am confident that they will make valuable contributions in shaping and influencing the future direction of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber."

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber website

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News: Finalists announced for Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2017

Young Rotherham entrepreneurs from a wide range of business are vying to win the overall title of Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year for 2017 – and a £1,000 prize.

Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), an organisation that provides support and help to young business owners, runs the annual awards in association with UK Steel Enterprise.

Now in their twelfth year, the awards aim to celebrate and promote the best businesses run by 18-30 year olds in Rotherham that have been up and running for at least six months.

This year's judging panel comprises industry experts from AESSEAL, Parkgate Shopping, University Centre Rotherham, Fortem, The Source Retail Skills Academy and UKSE, with the winners due to be recognised at the awards ceremony on November 13 at Magna Science Adventure Centre, which makes up part of LEAF, a wider careers and opportunities event targeted at young people across the region.

Darren McDool, business coach from Rotherham Youth Enterprise, said: "The calibre of the candidates that entered this year has been exceptional. We have thoroughly enjoyed reading the submissions and are privileged to have been invited to learn more about these businesses and the truly entrepreneurial young individuals in our region.

"Previous winners have gone on to do great things, capitalising on the exposure that this accolade provides, so we are pleased to see another group of really strong candidates on this year's shortlist."

Rotherham Youth Enterprise, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, aims to equip the young people of Rotherham with the enterprise skills that they need to make a success of their future and to contribute to the economy in the borough.

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Keith Williams from UKSE - a subsidiary of Tata Steel tasked with assisting the economic regeneration of communities affected by changes in the steel industry, said: "The work of the Rotherham Youth Enterprise, and their dedication to supporting young entrepreneurs and economic growth, is well aligned to the UK Steel Enterprise ethos, and we are delighted to be once again sponsoring these awards.

"The entries have been excellent, and we're looking forward to further recognising the success of the winners at the awards ceremony on the 13th."

The shortlist:

- Jordan Mangnall (20) of Jaded Heart Ltd. Jaded Heart Ltd. is a retailer of cruelty free bath and body products and was launched in February 2017 by Jordan fuelled by the desire to offer affordable aromatherapy and relaxation products. Jaded Heart also stocks alternative clothing and accessories.

- Lauren Martin (24) of Doll&Bone. Doll&Bone is an online, independent fashion retailer, launched in May 2015 by Lauren and her partner. Doll&Bone, now a recognised name in the alternative clothing and fashion community, is currently working on a unique collaboration with Birmingham Children's Hospital Charity inspired by their seven-year-old son's imagination, incorporating a plethora of children’s television and movie characters into the unique design.

- Abby Johnson (27) of Edit Salon. Edit Salon is a boutique, contemporary hair salon and flagship store for the Aveda eco-friendly, plant-based product range. Alongside offering haircuts, colours and styles, the salon also offers HD Brows, spray tanning, facial treatments and nails.

- Amy Walker (25) of Ye Old Yorkshire Preserve Shoppe. Ye Old Yorkshire Preserve Shoppe is the producer and seller of award winning natural preserves and chutneys with no artificial additives, preservatives, setting agents and colourings. All products are hand-crafted in the heart of Yorkshire, no machinery in sight.

- Tom Ridgeway (25) of Cutthroats Barbershop. Cutthroats Barbershop is a traditional barbershop offering haircuts, beard trims, hot towel shaves and advice on how to stay well groomed. Based on Moorgate in the heart of Rotherham, the barbers has been nominated in the local retail awards in the Shoppers' Choice Favourite Hair & Beauty Business award category, and came runners up.

- Katie Ferrie (25) of Knead Bakery. Knead Bakery is a locally-sourced coffee shop and artisan bakery that produces homemade breads, pastries and cakes, providing delicious breakfasts, brunches, lunches and afternoon teas.

- Adam Price (21) of Dynomodels. Dynomodels is one of the largest specialist shops in the area, stocking a wide range of quality remote controlled models, parts and accessories from all the well-known brands throughout the remote controlled hobby industry.

- Sam Wilkinson (25) of Postify. Postify is an online job advertisement platform that provides flat-fee recruitment consultancy, initiated to revolutionise the outdated recruitment industry and bring a fresh new approach to recruitment.

- Emily Dawson (27) of Holy Ghost Tattoo Collective. Holy Ghost Tattoo Collective is a boutique style tattoo and piercing studio residence to 14 artists, located in the flagship Imperial Buildings, Rotherham Town Centre.

- Lucy Hornsby (19) of Lucy Amber Lingerie. Lucy Amber Lingerie is an online store selling handmade lingerie and nightwear. All items are lovingly designed and handmade by Lucy Amber in the UK.

RYE website
UKSE website

Images: Pretty Suds / Facebook

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News: Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2017

Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), an organisation that provides support and help to young business owners, has launched the annual Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in association with UK Steel Enterprise.

The awards, now in their twelfth year, cover all sectors and aim to celebrate and promote the best businesses run by 18-30 year olds in Rotherham that have been up and running for at least six months. Categories include Business Most Determined to Succeed, Most Innovative Business, Best Online presence, Best Business Pitch and Best Customer Service; with one winner also going on to be crowned Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2017.

Category winners will win a £500 boost to help further their business, with an additional cash prize of £1,000 also awarded to the overarching winner.

Darren McDool, business coach from RYE, said: "This is a really important event in the Rotherham Youth Enterprise calendar because it gives us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of all of the fantastic, ambitious, innovative businesses established in the region that are run by young people.

"Previous winners have really benefited from being associated with the competition, and in our twelfth year of hosting the awards it would be fantastic to see yet more Rotherham-based enterprises reaping those rewards."

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Chloe Pretty, the founder of handmade soap company Pretty Suds – which crafts an alternative to supermarket bought soap, selling bath, body, scented and wax handmade products online to happy customers all over the country - was named Best New Start Up and was crowned Young Entrepreneur of the Year in the awards last year.

Speaking of her success following the win, Chloe said: "I'm still over the moon about winning the awards. I took a huge gamble quitting my day job to put all of my time and effort into Pretty Suds and it is great to be recognised for the hard work and passion that has gone into making my dream a reality.

"Pretty Suds has gathered in momentum as a result of the ongoing business advice and support I have received from Rotherham Youth Enterprise, and I have also acquired office and workshop space made available in a business incubation centre, which would not have been possible without my success at the Rotherham Youth Enterprise Awards."In addition to the cash boost she was presented with a special trophy in recognition of her achievements at the event.

Chloe added: "Entering the awards is a fantastic opportunity for young business owners in the area to gain access to vital funding and invaluable advice from experts in the field on how to take an upcoming business and turn it into a successful enterprise, I'd highly recommend entering if you are a young business owner based in Rotherham!"

UK Steel Enterprise Regional Manager, Keith Williams, commented: “We are delighted to be involved once again in sponsoring and supporting with the judging of the awards.

"This annual event serves to recognise the breadth of talent and the overwhelming amount of innovation that is based right here in Rotherham, and we are always impressed by the calibre of the entries and the entrepreneurial spirit of so many young people."

Entries for the awards will close on October 16 2017 and entry forms are available by contacting Rotherham Youth Enterprise via the website; alternatively check out the Rotherham Youth Enterprise Facebook page for further information, or contact Darren McDool on 0114 2695053.

Rotherham Youth Enterprise website

Images: RYE

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News: Rotherham gym stronger following UKSE funding

A Rotherham-based gym has expanded the services it provides since receiving funding from UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE) Kickstart Fund.

New business owner of Pivotal Fitness, Rob Newton, who bought the business in February 2017, arrived eager to develop the gym and improve the calibre of classes that it provides.

Based at Parkgate, the gym houses six personal training consultants.

The funding from UKSE allowed Rob to purchase "MyZone" equipment, a group heart-rate-tracking wearable piece of equipment, which the trainers have found particularly useful in fitness classes and personal training sessions. Alongside this, Rob has invested in new signage and branded items of clothing for the members of Pivotal Fitness to purchase.

Pivotal Fitness now works with a growing customer base in and around South Yorkshire and has a formidable social media presence, which Rob utilises to further increase his clientele.

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Rob Newton, owner of Pivotal Fitness (pictured, left), said: "There has been a real improvement to the ways in which we operate since receiving the £500 funding from UKSE – we've been able to focus on making our services better, but also getting our name out there with branded kit and marketing collateral.

"We have introduced a new class timetable with a greater number of classes each day, which has allowed us to increase the number of clients and booked classes significantly, utilising social media to really push our brand.

"The £500 investment from UK Steel Enterprise has really helped us mature our services and we are all looking forward to seeing how much progress we can make in the coming year."

UK Steel Enterprise, a subsidiary of Tata Steel, was launched in 1975 to support the economic development of steel industry areas. Launched in February 2016 by UKSE, with support from RIDO and Rotherham Youth Enterprise, the Kickstart Fund consists of a £40,000 pot dedicated to supporting people looking to establish a business in the area with grants between £500 and £1,000.

Allan Wood of UKSE (pictured, centre), said: "Rob has demonstrated an admirable drive to expand Pivotal Fitness and ensure he puts the investment to great use, keeping his clients at the core of his focus.

"We're very much looking forward to see how Pivotal Fitness grows over the next year."

Pivotal Fitness website
UKSE website

Images: UKSE

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News: Garden firm grows with Kickstart grant

A green-fingered Rotherham-based entrepreneur has launched his own garden maintenance business after a funding boost of £500 allowed him to purchase vital equipment and marketing material.

The helping hand, which came from the UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE) Kickstart fund, allowed to purchase much needed equipment including a hedge trimmer, as well as advertising to help raise awareness of the brand.

Now, OCM Gardening is working on behalf of customers across the region – providing services such as garden clearance and ongoing maintenance.

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Joseph Outram, founder of OCM Gardening, said: "I established the business last summer and received a handful of word-of-mouth enquiries, but I was really able to take things to the next level thanks to the funding boost from the UK Steel Enterprise Kickstart fund.

"Not only has the advertising allowed me to raise awareness of the business to a wider audience – which has resulted in a lot more business – but I was able to buy new equipment that made the whole process a lot more efficient."

Joseph is now on track to build the business further and will be looking to take on an apprentice and get a larger van, both to accommodate taking on larger jobs and increasing workload in the near future.

Launched in February 2016 by UKSE, with support from RIDO and Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), the Kickstart Fund consists of a £40,000 pot dedicated to supporting people looking to establish a business in the area. UK Steel Enterprise, a subsidiary of Tata Steel, was launched in 1975 to support the economic development of steel industry areas.

Allan Wood of UK Steel Enterprise said: "It is great to be able to help Joseph launch his own business and it is clear that he is already looking to the future and considering how to take things to the next level."

OCM Gardening Facebook page
UKSE website

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News: Teenage Market taking place in Rotherham

National initiative, The Teenage Market, is setting out its stall in Rotherham next month, offering enterprising traders and performers free pitches on a prime shopping street in Rotherham town centre.

Supported by Rotherham Youth Enterprise, Rotherham Council and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the Teenage Market will take place on Effingham Street on May 27 and young people aged 13-25 from across the borough are being invited to get involved and showcase their talents and entrepreneurial spirit.

Effingham Street hosts the borough's Tuesday street market which was successful in the Best Large Outdoor Market category in 2016 at the national competition run by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).

The market will run from 10am - 4pm on Saturday and is completely free to take part in. Entrants don't have to be an established trader or performer either.

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The Teenage Market was created when teenage brothers Tom and Joe Barratt decided that there should be a specialist market designed specifically for the large population of young people in their hometown of Stockport. It is now running in over thirty locations across the UK, giving local young people the chance to actively engage and take part in events in their town or city.

The event builds on the work of projects such as the Maker's Emporium on Rotherham's award-winning High Street where the former Snafu rock bar was transformed in 2014 and now offers low-cost shared and professionally-managed retail space to a mixture of makers, crafters, artists and designers.

Funded by the High Street Renewal Award and delivered in partnership between the Council, The Source Skills Academy and Rotherham Youth Enterprise, the Emporium supports new start-businesses looking to trade for the first time, raise awareness of their products and letts them see for themselves what it takes to run their own business.

The FSB worked to bring The Teenage Market to Sheffield last year and Rotherham and Doncaster events are taking place in May this year.

Andrew Flower, chairman of the FSB in South Yorkshire, said: "We are delighted to invite all young entrepreneurs and performers to help create two great events for our town centres. The vibrancy and excitement that young people generate will bring a festival atmosphere to their host town centres. They are completely FREE to take part in and we hope that traders will take away large amounts of cash. Participants don’t have to be established traders or performers either.

"We hope that through these important events, a whole new generation of entrepreneurs is discovered. The Teenage Markets offer a vital opportunity for young traders to experience face-to-face selling for the first time. Having the ability and confidence to make a sales pitch is an invaluable attribute for any teenager who fancies a career in business. Here's a chance for them to hone their pitch and perfect their selling skills.

"We're also looking for young performers to entertain the crowds. Who knows – we may discover the next "X Factor" winner even before Simon Cowell gets a look-in!"

For details on how to take part in the Rotherham event, visit the Teenage Market website.

Images: Teenage Market

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News: Jaded Heart opens in Rotherham town centre

A young entrepreneur has brought her range of relaxing products into Rotherham town centre as the independent retailer opens her heart.

Jordan Mangnall launched her bath, body and clothing business Jaded Heart just 13 months ago after finishing college and taking a gap year whilst studying a Social Media and Marketing apprenticeship. Whilst Jordan's love for aromatherapy and relaxation has been ever present, it was during a period of extreme anxiety and depression when the idea of selling scented goodies to the masses was born.

With a desire to enable people to buy affordable aromatherapy and relaxation products easier than ever before, the 20 year old from East Herringthorpe began selling bath bombs and candles at events and markets in Sheffield, Barnsley, Leeds and Sleaford to name a few.

Last year, after receiving free business help and advice via the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) programme, Jordan gained a stall at the Rotherham Show and was awarded with a £100 prize from the Mayor of London Lindsay Pitchley for having the best stand within the RYE tent.

Now Jordan has brought her business to Rotherham town centre after securing business premises on Moorgate Street, where she has sourced a comprehensive range of bath and body products as well as alternative clothing, candles, incense and official Harry Potter merchandise.

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Jordan Mangnall, Founder of Jaded Heart (pictured at the store opening with the mayor), said: "I have always had a passion for aromatherapy and relaxation products and as a teenager I would spend a ridiculous amount of money on bath bombs and candles. I discovered whenever I was feeling anxious and needed to relax, the first thing I would do was run a bath and fill it with any product I could find!

"During my gap year and after I had left my apprenticeship, I realised that I wanted to help people access affordable yet luxurious products to help them relax in the way it helped me when I was at one of my lowest points. I simply asked my Mum what she thought of the idea then set to work contacting suppliers, setting up a website and registering to attend markets up and down the country.

"When I heard about the Rotherham Youth Enterprise, I was ready to take the next step on my business journey and knew I wanted to open a shop one day. My advisor, Darren McDool, has been a great support and helped me to prepare a business plan, win the grant from Tata Steel and secure my first business property. My mum has also been an integral part of this whole journey. Without her support, I wouldn't be where I am today, opening my first store at 20 years old!"

Jaded Heart website
RYE website

Images: Jaded Heart / Facebook

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News: IT Assist in Kickstart funding boost

A funding boost enabled a Rotherham-based entrepreneur to fulfil a life-long ambition of establishing an IT support and consultancy services business - IT Assist.

Dedicated to delivering honest, affordable, easy to understand technical advice to businesses and individuals alike, IT Assist was founded in 2016 by Danny Davies and now works with a growing customer base in and around South Yorkshire.

Specialising in telephone, IT and cloud services, the enterprise secured a £500 funding boost from the UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE) Kickstart fund and was invested in remote control software, as well as signage for the company car.

Danny Davies, founder of IT Assist and an experienced IT technician and manager (pictured, right), said: "The last nine months have been a real whirlwind; getting the business established and making sure that people knew about who we were and what we had to offer.

"Now, we have a well-established customer base which is growing by the day. We're delighted to be delivering a range of services to a whole myriad of businesses – large and small, and spanning a range of sectors.

"None of this would have been possible at such pace without the support from UK Steel Enterprise and the Kickstart fund. That initial £500 injection made the world of difference when it came to purchasing vital equipment and helping us to get out brand noticed; a challenge for any budding business!"

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The business was commended at the Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2016.

With offices now at Denaby, three additional IT support roles are being generated in the coming months due to the success experienced to date.

Launched in February 2016 by UKSE with support from RIDO and Rotherham Youth Enterprise, the Kickstart Fund consists of a £40,000 pot dedicated to supporting people looking to establish a business in the area.

Recommended reading: How Businesses Leverage Software to Accelerate Growth and Simplify Operations

Allan Wood of UK Steel Enterprise (pictured, left), said: "IT Assist is a great example of what can be achieve by ambitious entrepreneurs who are looking to utilise their existing skills to set up a new business.

"We're very much looking forward to following the journey of the company as it continues to grow in the coming months."

UK Steel Enterprise, a subsidiary of Tata Steel, was launched in 1975 to support the economic development of steel industry areas, to this day it has helped over 6,700 businesses with investments upwards of £91m, and has created over 77,000 jobs.

IT Assist website
UKSE website

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News: Enterprising students show what's old is new

Teams of enterprising 6th form and college students from across Rotherham have been putting their business skills to the test as part of a challenge set by Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE).

Recognising that upcycling is especially popular during the recent economic downturn, the competition challenged teams of students to take an old item that isn't used or wanted anymore and increase its value and quality through upcycling. The products had to be a better quality and a higher value than the original item; be an original, but not unrealistic idea that can be sold to target customers; and have the potential to positively impact the environment.

Six colleges/6th forms schools were involved in the challenge and eight teams were invited to the challenge finals, gathering last week to present to a range of judges from the Rotherham business community, local employers and media.

Alex Whittaker from RNN College was the overall winner, picking up £250 in Meadowhall vouchers. Her Household Junk Into Gifts idea brought together a great business plan and presentation focusing on creative gifts targeted at students this Christmas. The idea also had a demonstrable ethos where profits would go to charity.

Alex also picked up a further £50 in vouchers for the Most Innovative Upcycling Idea.

Other winners were Nicole Scarfe, Rebecca Horsfield, Georgia Booker from Thomas Rotherham College wo picked up £50 in vouchers for the Most Viable Business Plan which focused on shabby chic furniture targeted at hair salons. Charlie Yates, Megan Strutt, Lauren Oxley and Ella Shields, also from Thomas Rotherham College, were awarded £50 in vouchers and the Best Team Presentation prize for their Luxry Lino idea of creating printed goods from upcycled lino.

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The Tatty Timber team were also placed third overall and secured £100 in vouchers with Molly Wilkinson and Connor Renshaw from Dearne Valley College named as the runner up and bagged £150 in voucher for their Trash2Treasure idea of creating products from upcyclyed pallets.

The annual event is organised by Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) which encourages young people (up to the age of 30) to explore business ideas and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be their own boss. Supported by Rotherham Council, office and workshop space is also made available in Rotherham business centres on reduced rates.

A number of entrepreneurs who have been supported by RYE gave up their time to be judges at the event.

The event was also supported by UK Steel Enterprise - part of Tata Steel that provides equity and loan finance to growing companies, help the economic development of those areas of the UK most affected by changes in the steel industry.

Keith Williams, regional manager at UK Steel Enterprise, said: "We are delighted to support this well–established business challenge in association with Rotherham Youth Enterprise who provide invaluable enterprise training and support to would be entrepreneurs which also improve their employability skills.

"The challenge helps to equip young people with the knowledge and skills required to be successful in the real world and in business."

RYE website
UK Steel Enterprise website

Images: RYE

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News: Pretty good day for young entrepreneur Chloe

Chloe Pretty of Pretty Suds Ltd has been named as the overall winner in the Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2016, on the same day she was awarded her marketing degree.

Part of the Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) Project, the annual awards are held in association with UK Steel Enterprise and cover all sectors and aim to celebrate and promote the best businesses run by 18-30 year olds in Rotherham that have been up and running for at least six months.

RYE encourages young people (up to the age of 30) to explore business ideas and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be their own boss. Supported by Rotherham Council, office and workshop space is also made available in Rotherham business centres on reduced rates.

The awards were announced the recent LEAF careers event at Magna.

Having already been successful in the best new start-up category, an emotional Chloe was close to tears as her name was announced as the overall winner by Allan Wood from UK Steel Enterprise, principal sponsors of the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

Chloe then had to head straight off to attend her graduation ceremony at Sheffield Hallam University.

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Pretty Suds began in 2014, with the former Thomas Rotherham College student producing handmade soaps from home as an alternative to supermarket-bought soap. Selling online and at markets and fairs the enterprise found success with its products "created to make people smile."

The business has recently moved into its own premises having outgrown the kitchen table. The success is down in no small part to marketing graduate Chloe creating special products inspired by the global phenomenon of Pokemon.

The company continues to be very busy, crafting and packing exciting new Christmas lines and has recently begun signing up sales representatives to join the expanding team.

Also at the awards, the Best Established Business Category sponsored by RYE was won by Abbey Clayton who's business is Abbey Clayton Make-up Artist.

In the New Start category, sponsored by Willmott Dixon and won by Chloe, Danny Davies of IT support specialists, IT Assist was commended.

Paige Bennett of retail business, Mysticum Luna was successful in the Most Innovative Business category sponsored by AESSEAL. Luke Wade and Lee Feltham of Lightning Box Ltd were commended in this category.

The award for the Business Most Determined to Succeed, sponsored by Rotherham College, was won by Amy Walker from Ye Old Yorkshire Preserve Shoppe with Joe Barber of Comfort Zone PHS and Elizabeth Harwood of Two for Joy Introductions Ltd both commended.

In the award for Best Customer Service, sponsored by Parkgate Shopping, Adam Price from Laughton shop, Dynomodels was the winner with Annmarie Cox of Reloved and Revived at Thurcroft commended.

Details on all the finalists can be found here.

Category winners secured a £500 boost to help further their business, with an additional cash prize of £1,000 also awarded to Pretty Suds as the overarching winner.

Jackie Frost from Rotherham Youth Enterprise gave thanks to the Young Entrepreneurs for being brave enough to start their own business and to enter the competition and added: "The standard of entry has been really pleasing again this year and we expect to see a number of the finalists battling it out with another crop of new businesses in 2017."

Pretty Suds website
RYE website

Images: UKSE

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News: Rotherham's Young Entrepreneurs of the Year 2016

Rothbiz takes a look at the finalists in the Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2016 - the awards that recognise the achievements of the borough's brightest young businesses.

Now in their eleventh year, the awards are organised with the support of principal sponsor – UK Steel Enterprise. Category sponsors are AESSEAL, Parkgate Shopping, Rotherham College and Willmott Dixon, and all acted as judges and supported with the promotion and organisation of the awards.

The finalists:

Abbey Clayton of Abbey Clayton Make-up Artist
Providing special occasion and event make-up services, Abbey has made great progress in developing her portfolio of corporate work for clients such as Channel 5 and Liverpool Fashion Week, where she was Assistant Head Make-up Artist.

Adam Price of Dynomodels
At just 19 years of age Adam opened his Dynomodels store in Laughton Common in September 2015, turning his life-long passion into a business. He offers his customers a range of hobby-grade remote control models and spares and backs this up with a great level of knowledge and enthusiasm.

Amy Walker of Ye Old Yorkshire Preserve Shoppe
Having battled with dyslexia and dyscalculia throughout her school and working life, Amy made the decision to start this business to take control of her own destiny. She now offers a huge range of chutneys, jams and marmalades under her traditional Yorkshire branding.

Annmarie Cox of Reloved and Revived
This family run business specialises in vintage painted furniture in the French shabby style using high-end quality paints. With a shop at Thurcroft, most of their finds are vintage, one offs sourced from all over the country.

Chloe Pretty of Pretty Suds Ltd
Handmade products created to make you smile. Having started manufacturing soaps in the kitchen and packaging in the spare room, Chloe recently moved into business premises due to a rapid growth in sales. It will allow her to continue building on the success of her branding concept over the past few months.

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Danny Davies of IT Assist
Branded as "the superheroes of the IT world," this Denaby-based business specialises in providing refreshingly simple and straightforward IT support to enable the smooth running of their client's business.

Elizabeth Harwood of Two for Joy Introductions Ltd
Offering a safer alternative to online dating, this dating agency personally vets and checks the ID and credibility of all of its members to give peace of mind. Based at Century Business Centre in Manvers, the agency considers personal safety as its top priority and offers a chaperone service at no extra cost.

Joe Barber of Comfort Zone PHS
Based in Goldthorpe but offering nationwide coverage, Joe carries out all minor and major plumbing and heating works at affordable prices, from boiler swaps and upgrades and full central heating systems, to the design and installation of standard bathrooms and wet rooms.

Recommended reading: How Online Poker Platforms Make Money

Luke Wade and Lee Feltham of Lightning Box Ltd
The innovative pair have developed a holographic stage show which will be touring in theatres in 2017. The enterprise, which is based at RYE's centre in Treeton, has the mission to craft immersive, magical, and awe-inspiring experiences using original cast footage, live music, visual and audio sound effects.

Paige Bennett of Mysticum Luna
Starting as an online business, Paige opened her first shop in Rotherham town centre earlier this year offering a range of products from jewellery and clothing to candles and pillows. The popular brand has over 50,000 Instagram followers.

Find out who won the Young Entrepreneurs of Year title here.

RYE website

Images: UKSE

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News: National enterprise award for Rotherham retailer

A young entrepreneur whose shop is the focal point for the skate community in Rotherham has won a national award from the Prince's Trust.

Props Skate Store in Rotherham town centre is owned by Tom Jones and has been building up a cult following since opening at the end of 2011. Last year, the store kicked on and expanded into trick new premises in the Imperial Buildings.

Having received support on his journey through the Prince's Trust, the youth charity that supports 13 to 30 year-olds who are unemployed and those struggling at school and at risk of exclusion, Tom entered the Tomorrow's Business Awards which recognises enterprises who are making a positive difference to their own lives, their community or the environment through their businesses.

Tom was one of three national winners taking home £3,000 to be invested in the business. The trio attended a recent celebration event hosted by NatWest in their offices which saw the successful businesses receiving coaching and mentoring sessions from high profile business people and experts to help them take their next step on their enterprise journey.

Trust Chairman, Lloyd Dorfman CBE, was joined by M&S CEO Steve Rowe and Claire Locke, founder of fashion retailer Artigiano and Vice Chair of the Trust's Enterprise Fellowship, in mentoring the young people. Senior NatWest representatives David Wheldon, Peter Ryan-Bell, James Gardiner and Kirsty Britz all spent time with the winners alongside Marcelino Castrillo, Head of Business Banking who presented the trophies.

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Martina Milburn CBE, chief executive of The Prince's Trust, said: "The Tomorrow's Business Awards were designed to showcase the talent and innovation of young people who have set up businesses with help from The Prince's Trust. We're proud of all the young people who, with our support, transform their lives and set up their own amazing businesses, so choosing the winners was difficult."

Tom Jones, owner of Props Skate Store (pictured with his award), said: "I grew up in a deprived area and there seemed to be no jobs available. I was stuck in a rut for a long time and felt like giving up. So many young people were in the same boat as me, and spend their time hanging around down at the park. It was soul-destroying.

"Rotherham has become increasing run down over the past few years, but I love the area and felt passionate about bringing people back into the community again – to help boost the local economy.

"Young people who used to hang out at the park are now taking up skating and coming to my shop to hang out – so I am really pleased that I have given something positive to keep them focused."

Tom managed to secure a loan from the Trust's Enterprise programme, which helped with purchasing stock, and opened in his first premises in a shop unit close to Rotherham market and the town's college campus. The current premises (pictured) allows Tom to print new designs on site and there's even a skate ramp set up in the basement.

Tom added: "I literally had no business experience before I came to The Prince's Trust, but the course gave me the confidence straight away. I had the idea of setting up a skate shop in Rotherham town centre and with the support of the trust, I decided to go for it.

"The Trust give me a business mentor and it was so helpful to have someone to talk to and advice me on my business plan – something I would have never imagined myself doing before.

"I am amazed at how my business has evolved and grown. Over the past five years I have managed to move into bigger premises in the centre of town and develop my own brand of clothing. I also organise skating events all over the borough for local skaters on a regular basis which is great fun. Props is not only a skate store but continues to be a community hub where young people meet on a regular basis to get advice and mutual support."

Having also received support from Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE), Tom is a previous winner of the Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, picking up the title in 2012.

Props Skate Store website

Images: Prince's Trust / Props / Facebook

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News: Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 2016

Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) has launched the annual Rotherham Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in association with UK Steel Enterprise.

RYE encourages young people (up to the age of 30) to explore business ideas and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be their own boss. Supported by Rotherham Council, office and workshop space is also made available in Rotherham business centres on reduced rates.

The awards, now in their eleventh year, cover all sectors and aim to celebrate and promote the best businesses run by 18-30 year olds in Rotherham that have been up and running for at least six months.

Categories include Best New Start-Up, Business Most Determined to Succeed, Best Established Business, Most Innovative Business, and Best Customer Service; with one winner also going on to be crowned Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2016.

Winners will win a £500 boost to help further their business, with an additional cash prize of £1,000 also awarded to the overarching winner.

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Darren McDool, business coach at RYE, said: "This is a really important event in the Rotherham Youth Enterprise calendar because it gives us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of all of the fantastic, ambitious, innovative businesses established in the region that are run by young people.

"Previous winners have really benefited from being associated with the competition, and in our eleventh year of hosting the awards it would be fantastic to see yet more Rotherham-based enterprises reaping those rewards."

Jessica Long, the founder of J L Dance Academy was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2015, having also won the Best New Start Up category last year.

In addition to the cash boost she was presented with a special trophy and a year's free membership to Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber in recognition of her achievements at the event.

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Keith Williams, regional manager at UK Steel Enterprise (pictured with last year's winner), said: "We are delighted to be involved once again in sponsoring and supporting with the judging of the awards.

"This annual event serves to recognise the breadth of talent and the overwhelming amount of innovation that is based right here in Rotherham, and we are always impressed by the calibre of the entries and the entrepreneurial spirit of so many young people."

Entries for the awards will close on October 17 2016 and entry forms are available by contacting Rotherham Youth Enterprise online and completing the enquiry form; alternatively visit the Facebook page for further information, or contact Darren McDool on 0114 2695053.

RYE website
UK Steel Enterprise website

Images: UKSE

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