One in Se7en Awards scheme for young entrepreneurs launched at Bangor Business School

Plaid Cymru leader Ieuan Wyn Jones and Bangor Business School marked World Entrepreneurs Day by launching One in Se7en, a new awards scheme for young entrepreneurs in participating schools and colleges in north Wales, and pledging a £90 million growth fund to help fledgling and small Welsh businesses develop and grow.

Launched at the Bangor Business School, the One in Se7en Awards for Young Entrepreneurs have been developed by Llandudno businessman and entrepreneur, Stephen Jones, proprietor of 75point3 Independent Financial Advisors. Supported by Professor Jonathan Williams of Bangor Business School, their aim is to inspire a new generation of young entrepreneurs to come forward with fresh business ideas for the future.(L-R): Prof. Jonathan Williams of Bangor Business School, Stephen Jones, founder and owner of 75point3, Plaid Cymru leader Ieuan Wyn Jones and Plaid Cymru candidate Iwan Huws.(L-R): Prof. Jonathan Williams of Bangor Business School; Stephen Jones, founder and owner of 75point3; Plaid Cymru leader Ieuan Wyn Jones; Plaid Cymru candidate Iwan Huws.

Plaid Cymru leader Ieuan Wyn Jones said: “Entrepreneurs are the drivers of the economy. One in seven of the Welsh workforce is self-employed and this number is increasing. Those who take the step to create and build businesses ensure jobs and prosperity for the whole country. Only by carefully nurturing that creativity and enterprise, and the sheer energy and optimism of our young people, will we be able to see more and more indigenous Welsh businesses grow up and bring vital jobs and prosperity to every community throughout Wales.”

Professor Jonathan Williams of Bangor Business School added: “Bangor Business School is delighted to launch the One in Se7en Awards with 75point3. Encouraging entrepreneurial flair through the medium of education is vital for successful business growth and the economic development of our region.

“Schools and universities play a major role in nurturing the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. The basic skills we learn from an early age through to topical discussions at university help shape our knowledge and ability to be innovative and creative. The One in Se7en Awards offer local students the opportunity to think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, uncover the intricacies of business and the economy, and enhance interpersonal and team-building skills with fellow students. I fully expect the One in Se7en Awards to motivate players, unlock youthful vigour, and create aspirations for personal development in either Higher Education and/or the world of business. Bangor Business School wishes each player every success in competing in this year’s awards and for the future.”

Stephen Jones, founder and proprietor of 75point3, said: “The objective is for pupils to come up with a new or improved idea which will lead to an increase in the prosperity of their local community. It needn’t be complicated and ideally could be something that can be implemented without a major financial commitment. The idea is likely to involve a business plan of some form but it does not have to be a new business if they can see another way that the community could benefit. We look forward to receiving entries in autumn 2011 via YouTube or other digital media and will be awarding prizes in 2012. Sponsoring businesses can bid via eBay but should get in early while they can as there has been considerable interest from business colleagues already.”

Publication date: 19 April 2011