Applications in for BIBAs Foundation funds

The Be Inspired Business Awards has reported strong interest for grants from its BIBAs Foundation, which it set up to create a legacy of enterprise for the county.

The Foundation has been founded as a charity by the awards and the Lancashire Community Foundation to give out grants of up to £2,000 to 16-24 year olds in the county to develop skills and expand and build businesses.

Now, a committee will meet to assess the applications.

Karen Morris of the Community Foundation Lancashire said: “The BIBAs Foundation was launched because of the demand for funding and support from the group of young enterprising people it has been set up to award.

“The demand which it has been met with in even these early stages is evidence this demand is there which is fantastic. Business awards provide a spotlight to celebrate the success stories from across our community, but the BIBAs Foundation is raising the bar and building a legacy for the future. It would be fantastic to think one of the enterprising individuals it supports will go on to become a BIBAs winner of the future.”

The BIBAs has received applications from all corners of Lancashire which have already been considered by the Lancashire Community Foundation before going forward to the committee.

The funds will be distributed by the Community Foundation.

Norman Tenray President of the North & Western Lancashire chamber of Commerce, added: “We have to ensure every penny of this vital resource is being used to support those enterprising individuals which require the support the most.”