Business Link client celebrates award success
06/10/2006
A Business Link for Bedfordshire and Luton client is celebrating after success at an awards ceremony for new businesses in Norfolk. Graphic designer Ian Holohan won two prizes at an annual graduation ceremony for students of the New Entrepreneur Scholarship programme. The programme, delivered locally by Business Link for Bedfordshire and Luton, provides a combined package of ongoing business guidance, training and financial assistance. Its comprehensive course content teaches scholars the fundamental skills required to manage a business and offers guidance in the development of a personal business plan.
Thirty three year old Ian, who was entered for the awards by Business Link Adviser Shahida Parkar, won both the prize for 'Best Business Plan' and the 'Scholar of the Year' prize. Now Ian is looking forward to the National Awards in November where, as overall regional winner for the East of England, he will be nominated for the national NES Entrepreneur of the Year award. Said Shahida:
'I was struck by the quality of Ian's business plan; I'm delighted his considerable abilities have been
recognized. Winning the awards should benefit Ian by enhancing the reputation of his business'.
Ian previously worked for London based advertising agencies but recently set up his own company Holohan Design working from Luton's Hat Factory. Commenting on his success, Ian said:
'The NES scheme and Business Link helped me get started, offering me free training in book-keeping, business planning etc, funding for equipment and ongoing mentoring support from a business advisor. Winning the awards has been the icing on the cake and hopefully will help to raise the profile of my business'.
