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Finalists for the Midlands in a new º£½ÇÊÓƵ-wide awards initiative championing the best in start-ups and entrepreneurial activity can been revealed.

The has been launched to recognise the booming startup scene across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ which has accelerated since the pandemic began. In 2020, when most of the world was shutting down, more than 400,000 startups were set up in Britain, with similar increases seen in other European countries.

This marked boost in nascent entrepreneurship is mirrored by a huge 2,500 applications which have been received in response to the Startup Awards National Series’ first ever call for entries.

The Midlands startups that made the shortlist are a true snapshot of the future economy, with a collective turnover of over £15m and employing 547 people between them. Of the region’s great passion for entrepreneurship, one finalist said: “The Midlands is full of exciting and wonderful opportunities, with its open countryside and wide variety of events.

“It’s also built on the foundations of some fantastic entrepreneurship, from Rolls-Royce to Bombardier, and many more. I've been supported by many Midlands businesses in a range of sectors and by families recommending me by word of mouth.”

The cohort of finalists will be considered for the regional prizes by a panel of seasoned judges with experience founding or supporting entrepreneurial ventures. This includes Midlands-based Piers Linney, serial entrepreneur and Dragons Den investor, and Heather Gorringe, founder of Great British Florist.

Supported nationally by BT, EY, Dell & Intel, the programme will celebrate the achievements of the amazing individuals across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ who have turned an idea into an opportunity and taken the risk to launch a new product or service.

Co-founded by the team behind the , the new series follows the success of the Wales StartUp Awards, after organisers recognised the exceptional potential in the startup scene across the other British regions.