Search is on for Scotland’s finest female entrepreneurs

Poonam Gupta

The fifth annual awards celebrate the entrepreneurial talents of women across the country while helping to create more business role models to inspire the next generation.

From rural businesses and start-ups to sole traders, innovators, mentors and board members, the search is on for great women who are doing outstanding work in their sectors.

Poonam Gupta OBE, the CEO of Greenock-based PG Paper Company, was presented with the highest accolade at last year’s event – Business Woman of the Year.

“It was great to be recognised as Business Woman of the Year by Business Women Scotland,” she said. “These awards are inspirational, not just for me but everyone who is associated with PG Paper. Awards like this, which acknowledge women entrepreneurs, also inspire others. I hope more and more women take their role as business leaders in time to come.”

Entries close on 2 September and the awards ceremony takes place on 8 November at 200 SVS, Glasgow.

“Our aim is to recognise the notable contribution women are making to boost Scotland’s economy,” said Lynne Kennedy MBE, founding director of Business Women Scotland.

“Every year we hear stories of women making their mark in the world of business in innovative and ground-breaking ways. We want to recognise them and celebrate female entrepreneurship while shaping the agenda for equality.”

Judges of this year’s awards include Yvonne Greeves, head of women in business for NatWest, the Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank; Amanda Jones, employment partner at global law firm Dentons; business growth strategist June Walker, a specialist advisor to the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Future Female Business Leaders programme; leadership coach Laura Gordon, chair of Vistage; Michelle Ferguson, director of Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company; and Susie Fraser, director of Hollicom PR.

“We need more role models to inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs,” said Yvonne Greeves. “The Business Women Scotland Awards help find these role models and give them the chance to showcase their talents and fantastic businesses. It’s important to remember that collaboration is hugely important because we’re stronger if we work together.”