Entrepreneurs Forum

Business People talking in a group

“To use personal experience to foster and champion entrepreneurship”

The Entrepreneurs´ Forum was established in 2002 by a group of the North East's leading entrepreneurs. It was clear from its conception that this was to be an organisation run by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs and that the Forum itself had to be an entrepreneurial organisation which was innovative, resourceful and have the ability to change and adapt to the needs of its members. The Forum had to be firmly in the private sector although it would make a major contribution to the public sector's aim of transforming the regional economy.

Since its formation the Forum has achieved much in terms of raising the aspirations and expectations of north east entrepreneurs and helping them fulfil such ambitions. However, this is just the start of a process that can have both a major short-term impact and sustainable long-term benefits.

This has been made possible by a committed and energetic board all of whom are full-time entrepreneurs, yet are willing to devote their time and energies to a project that will benefit their region.

Two gentleman talking about business

Our objectives are:

To take the lead in encouraging a culture of enterprise within the region

The Forum believes that by raising the image and profile of entrepreneurs, developing emerging entrepreneurs, encouraging entrepreneurs to network and linking entrepreneurs with new opportunities, the Forum will help develop an entrepreneurial culture and promote the North East as an enterprising region both nationally and internationally. The Forum provides a powerful cross-sector network that will mobilise the private sector under the banner of entrepreneurship.

To be the natural focus for high growth business owners

The Forum is organised by entrepreneurs who have high growth businesses for entrepreneurs with high growth businesses and high growth expectations and has created peer groups that come together and share business challenges.

To help new and developing businesses

This is achieved by sharing practical experiences and providing learning opportunities for younger business people (in terms of business distance travelled) in order to lessen the pain and seemingly shorten the distance between the starting line and success.

To provide help, guidance and support to those who find their business in difficulty

Many successful entrepreneurs in the Forum have overcome failure and adversity to go on to run good businesses. Their advice and help both through open workshops and private mentoring will help turnaround the businesses of Forum members in difficulty.