In a week that has commenced with the sad news of the liquidation of Carillion and, its consequential effects upon the staff, its suppliers and their employees, I have been reminded of the wide spectrum of hope and support that is available to the people and businesses that will be affected by this.
As one of the Co-sponsoring businesses of the annual biz4Biz Awards, along with other owners, I have this week been involved in judging the shortlisted businesses and listening to their presentations.
Over the last few years the Awards have rapidly become the county’s premier impartial and independent event that can be won by any business in Hertfordshire. The wide range of categories include, amongst others, Best Apprenticeship, Best Family Business, Best Corporate Social Responsibility and, the overall Business of the Year.
Hertfordshire promotes itself as the County of Opportunity and this has certainly been endorsed by the breadth and diversity of the businesses and people that have attended this week.
Although the judges have heard from some very successful long established firms, there have also been presentations from more recently set up practices that clearly have both an entrepreneurial spirit and, have taken advantage the wide range of both financial and business support that is available across the county.
In addition to these more commercial ventures, the shortlists have also included organisations in the voluntary sector who provide valuable support to people in need and, to those who may want to develop an idea into a business and, just need help in getting started.
Although I’m sure that similar support will be available in most other areas of the country there is no doubt that Hertfordshire can be rightly proud of the “Opportunities” it offers.
The biz4Biz Awards culminate on 2nd March 2018 when the winners of each category are announced at a Gala Dinner. More information can be found at www.bizawards.info
Whether as a consequence of the Carilion collapse or, just wanting help or guidance then any of the sponsors can help signpost people to assistance.
John Maynard Dip PFS, Certs CII (MP & ER)