DRAGON’S Den panellist Deborah Meaden is urging fledgling firms to put their foot down!

The deadline to enter the exciting Local Business Accelerators is fast approaching.

Now Deborah, who is the campaign’s national ambassador, is encouraging companies to make sure they don’t miss out.

The scheme aims to reward successful businesses with top professional advice from business mentors and substantial fee advertising space in local papers.

The Newspaper Society initiative is backed by almost 500 regional newspapers, including the Examiner, publisher of Kirklees Business News.

Fledgling firms can apply to take part via www.accelerateme.co.uk until the November 14 deadline.

Businesses from sectors such as catering, retail, technology, education, sports, creative industries and manufacturing have already applied.

Said Deborah: “Local Business Accelerators is the perfect opportunity to drive your business to success. With less than two weeks before entries close I’m calling on businesses in the Kirklees area to get involved.

“I’ve got a simple message for businesses in the area – don’t miss this great opportunity! Free advertising and invaluable mentoring advice to kick start your business is not to be thrown away.

“So if you’re a business that’s between one and three years old, with a great idea that wants to succeed, enter to be in with a chance of building a better future for both your business and the local community.”

For details of the scheme, go to www.accelerateme.co.uk