Council sets business challenge in West Lothian
An exciting new business competition is to be launched in West Lothian - with a prize package of £50,000 on offer to the winning business.
The Alba Innovation Challenge has been organised by West Lothian Council's Business Gateway with the aim of finding and supporting innovative new businesses that can grow in West Lothian - despite the credit crunch.
Scottish Enterprise, Alba Innovation Centre, Springfords and MBM Commercial LLP sponsor the competition.
The prizes include a significant financial incentive, free office space for a year and a package of expert advice, including legal and accountancy services.
The competition will be launched at an event at The Alba Innovation Centre in Livingston on Thursday 27 August 2009.
The competition is open to entrepreneurs and early stage businesses, especially those in innovative technology sectors who started a new business after 1 November 2008, or one that plans to start before 31 March 2010. Firms who are looking to gain commercial success through innovative, knowledge-based activity are invited to apply. An example of industry sectors who may be interested in applying may include software development, digital media and gaming, systems engineering and science-based activities including life sciences.
Entrepreneurs from across Scotland and the UK may apply but the winning business must be prepared to locate in West Lothian.
The launch event is also expected to attract accountants, solicitors, business investors and other business intermediaries advising technology businesses.
West Lothian's Business Gateway Manager, Alice Sinnet, said: "We want to encourage new businesses, especially those in innovative technology sectors, to start up and locate in West Lothian, and can deliver a full package of support to help them through the start up, early stages and growth processes.
"Despite the recession, there are still openings for new products and the space to see innovations developed to their full potential.
"The Alba Innovation Challenge has been organised to bring together entrepreneurial creativity, innovative ideas and talent with the people and resources that can help translate ideas into new businesses."
Pamela Woodburn, Director Industries & Infrastructure, Scottish Enterprise, said: " Scottish Enterprise is committed to increasing business investment in innovation by encouraging more Scottish companies to invest in developing new products, processes and technologies. By embracing the ability to innovate, businesses can make practical use of new ideas to maximise their potential for growth and ultimately make a significant impact on the Scottish economy."
Carol Wright, partner at chartered accountants and business advisors, Springfords, said: "We strongly believe that we can help enhance the image of West Lothian as a centre for innovation by working with innovative businessmen and women at the cutting edge."
Executive councillor for development and transport, Martyn Day, said: "West Lothian is Scotland's capital of enterprise, part of the Edinburgh Science Triangle and home to the Alba Business Park and the Alba Innovation Centre. It's central location, excellent transport links and easy access to the skills developed in some nine nearby universities makes it the obvious location for innovative businesses."
Business representatives and individuals looking to attend the launch event should email: ronnie@rjevents.co.uk
If you would like to see what type of businesses are already based at the Alba Innovation Centre please go to http://www.innovationcentre.org/alba/alba-case-studies/
