REGIONAL and local newspapers across the country have today delivered a huge boost to UK business – by pledging an unprecedented £15m of free advertising to the most dynamic fledgling enterprises.
The bold initiative, backed by Dragons’ Den judge Deborah Meaden, is called Local Business Accelerators (LBA) and is being spearheaded by the voice of local media, the Newspaper Society.
Nearly 500 local press publications, including the Huddersfield Daily Examiner, are joining forces to promote the strength and value of local newspapers for local businesses and communities.
Together, the local press industry will search for the nation’s most promising young businesses and help them accelerate their success with top professional advice from local business mentors, plus a substantial allocation of free advertising space in their local publication.
What’s more, one lucky business picked from the hundreds of regional winners will get individual mentoring sessions from the LBA national ambassador Deborah Meaden who will become a consultant and mentor to the business for one year.
She said: “I’ve seen the unique contribution that local press makes to the success of local businesses time and again with my own ventures.
“It has never been more important to drive awareness about the value of local marketing for a fledgling business, which is why I’m so proud to support LBA and help build thriving and industrious communities.”
This week, the Examiner launches its LBA search.
It’s open to all businesses that are active in the local community, between one and three years old and full of potential. They may have a great idea or product or even found a new market.
They’re the kind of businesses that will create new jobs and individually they will create pride in the community.
If you run such a business or know anyone who does and want the chance to receive invaluable business support and advertising space in the Examiner, visit www.accelerateme.co.uk for more information on the scheme and how to enter. Entries close November 14, 2011.
