The Sub36 programme of events has been unveiled for 2020, featuring an expanded awards night with new prizes for the winners and online networking to keep us all connected during the coronavirus lockdown.
Sub36, launched by Lancashire Business View to connect, inspire and celebrate the most inspirational people in business aged under 36, is a year-round calendar of informative and informal events.
The highlight of the year is the Sub36 Awards, scheduled for October, which features new categories, new sponsors and new prizes for 2020.
The awards programme sets itself apart by offering a package of support for winners, including business mentoring, to help spur on further growth. This year, for the first time, winners will also be given exclusive access to a funding partner, Rosebud, who can help advise businesses on how best to finance their goals.
Amin Vepari, of Lancashire County Council, said: “Rosebud is delighted to be partnering with Lancashire Business View and the Sub36 Awards. We’ve developed a strong partnership with Lancashire Business View over the years through our joint passion of celebrating Lancashire businesses and recognising the talent that Lancashire has to offer.
“Rosebud is a Lancashire fund developed for Lancashire businesses and as such we felt it fitting when the opportunity to become the funding partner came along. Having been established in the market for over 30 years Rosebud’s core purpose is to support the development and growth of businesses across Lancashire.”
There are now more opportunities to win a coveted award and access the package of support with the introduction of three new categories: the Made in Lancashire Award, Go Green Award, and Commitment to Skills Award which will celebrate businesses that are dedicated to attracting and retaining young business talent in Lancashire.
The awards will also crown a ‘Sub36 Hero’ on the night in celebration of a young person who has risen to the challenges that coronavirus has brought to businesses.
A popular part of the Sub36 offering has always been networking events, and Lancashire Business View has committed to running these events online for as long as social distancing is recommended. Events in the planning include interviews with business figures, previous winners, post-awards celebrations and social e-gatherings. The 2020 awards will also introduce an easy way to nominate candidates for awards so more businesses than ever can get involved.
Richard Slater, publisher of Lancashire Business View, said: “The Sub36 programme grows from strength to strength each year and we are excited to introduce new awards, new prizes for winners and new networking opportunities.
“Sub36 continues to grow in popularity and the improvements we make are based on the feedback from our readers and previous sponsors and contestants. There is a real hunger to celebrate the business successes of the county and especially those guided by the up-and-coming generations. Whilst we are experiencing challenging times, now more than ever we need to continue to celebrate the good.”
The 2020 Awards also welcomes a brand-new headline sponsor, Positive Pennine, which offers investment opportunities that are focussed on sustainability and positive social impact.
Sean Fisher, business development manager at Pennine Wealth Solutions and Positive Pennine, said “We are looking forward to being the headline sponsor of this year's Sub36 Awards. Having been involved last year and seeing the enthusiasm for the awards, we are delighted to be involved again this year.”
The first Sub36 online event – Sub36 social – will take place 4-5pm on Wednesday 13 May with special interviews and a chance to hear from sponsors as the ‘official’ launch of the 2020 awards. Full details can be found at www.sub36.co.uk