Hull’s high profile business network, For Entrepreneurs Only, has received the ultimate royal recognition.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service has been bestowed on the support group for aspiring company owners and start-ups in search of success.
Regarded as the highest accolade such a group can receive, it comes after the coronavirus pandemic saw 10th anniversary plans dashed.
Members who provide mentoring and inspiration as they strive to support the regional economy turn over £3.5 billion, while collectively employing more than 23,000 people.
Jan Brumby, chief executive, said: “We are absolutely over the moon to receive a Queen’s Award For Voluntary Service. It’s a fantastic recognition of our members for giving their valuable time, effort and commitment to the support of other like-minded individuals.
“Over the last 10 years FEO has helped literally thousands of entrepreneurs across all ages, with an aim to inspire and support them from the beginning, to the end of their business journey. Peer-led events, programmes and mentoring help participants to avoid making common business mistakes, enable bright ideas to develop and encourage a spirit of positivity and resilience.
“For making this possible, I’d like to thank every member of FEO and our key partners; Smailes Goldie, Gosschalks Solicitors, Cranswick Plc, MKM Building Supplies, The Horncastle Group and The One Point, who all together support our unique and independent community interest company.”
It is one of 241 awards made on the anniversary of the Queen’s coronation and follows the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, in which Hull’s Sewell Group was celebrated.
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Andrew Horncastle, chairman and a founding member of FEO, said: “I am so happy that the collective efforts of members, our executive, our directors and key partners have the royal seal of approval - an accolade equivalent to a knighthood for volunteer groups, that is so highly deserved.
“FEO members employ over 23,000 individuals in the area. Therefore, our activity is in the interests of everyone who lives in Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire. The objective is to help grow a bigger and stronger local economy, create more wealth and increase the number of better and higher paying jobs, so that more money is earned locally and will be spent locally.
“As a team, FEO’s biggest job is to push a region that is open for business. We have a voice which helps to shape ideas and to influence.
“Being recognised in this way is once again putting our region on the map. Lots of great stuff is happening here which makes this county a fantastic place to live, work and invest.”
Representatives of FEO will receive the award crystal and certificate from Jim Dick, Lord Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, later this summer.
Two volunteers from FEO will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May next year.
The announcement arrives just days ahead of Humber Business Week too, a celebration of the community served.