Success in 2014 Enterprising Britain Awards

A powerful network of 193 local businesses which is committed to improving Blackburn and Darwen was singled out for national praise.

The Hive, the borough’s Business Leaders Network, has been commended for the role it plays in improving the town’s prosperity as part of the 2014 Enterprising Britain Awards.

The awards are run by the Government as a way of celebrating good practice, focusing on small to medium businesses. Projects have to demonstrate how they meet strict criteria including simplifying administrative procedures and helping ensure access to new markets.

Blackburn has a proud history of innovation with many examples of entrepreneurs keen to work together for the wider benefit of the borough. Blackburn MP Jack Straw, in his letter of endorsement said: “The Hive has quickly become a leading example of getting things done through partnership working. It is supported by well-known brands and some of the borough’s most influential business people.”

Maureen Bateson, executive member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, added: “We are very fortunate in both Blackburn and Darwen to have some very passionate business leaders and other organisations who want to stand alongside the Council to make sure we do everything possible to make this a successful area. One of the Council’s main priorities is to create high quality jobs for local people and this network is playing a vital role.”

Listen to the podcast from Hive’s chairman Khalid Saifullah and director of family-owned Star Tissue UK about the commendation and the role of the network http://bit.ly/hive2014

Businesses which are interested in learning more about the activities of Hive or joining the network can do so at www.business-hive.co.uk .