The sponsor in the spotlight is Buckinghamshire New University, sponsors of the New Business of the Year Award.

Read their thoughts on the importance of a supportive business community, their pride in celebrating business success, and how the university can support people on their entrepreneurial journey.

Celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit

Written by the team at Buckinghamshire New University

"Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) is delighted to support the New Business of the Year Award at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards. This prestigious event celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that drives the local economy, and BNU's involvement underscores its commitment to fostering business growth and development within the community.

"BNU recognises the vital role that new businesses play in the economic and social fabric of Buckinghamshire. Start-ups and emerging enterprises bring fresh ideas, create jobs, and contribute to the vibrancy of the local economy. By supporting the New Business of the Year Award, BNU is championing the entrepreneurial efforts of individuals and teams who are making significant contributions to the region's prosperity.

Supporting the entrepreneurial journey

"An entrepreneur’s journey isn’t always easy and it can be daunting to start a new business idea, let alone stick with it after the excitement of the launch is over. That’s why it’s important for entrepreneurs to build a community around them, to find other like-minded individuals to inspire, to guide, to be a critical friend, ambassador or sounding board.

"Some of the network will be entrepreneurs themselves: some will be professional service partners such as book-keepers and solicitors, others will be business connectors, such as the Business Support Team at Buckinghamshire Business First; and not forgetting the specialists such as the knowledge and innovation teams at BNU.

"With 70% of entrepreneurs stating that the majority of their business comes from network referrals, it’s vital to nurture relationships amongst this ecosystem and to locate those that cheerlead, those that challenge, those that are great with problem solving, and those that can link you in with new ideas and innovation."

How BNU supports businesses

Buckinghamshire New University can support businesses in a number of different ways, including:

• A flexible workspace community of like-minded individuals focused on growth. Facilities available include desk space, office space, connectivity, access to an onsite gym, meeting rooms and café.
• Placements – for many businesses starting out, it’s a big step to take on an employee, so project-specific placement students can support when a business needs a little extra resource.
• Academic consultancy – ideal for businesses looking to evaluate, research or prototype new innovations. In some cases, the team can also signpost and support with access to grants and funding.
• Addressing skills gaps through high quality training and apprenticeship provision across themes such as health, leadership, resilience, digital and technology, and engineering.
• Specialist scientific equipment hire including BNU’s engineering and built environment lab, and health and care simulation suites.
• Meeting and event space ideal for product launches and collaboration requirements.

"The university takes great pride in celebrating the successes of the local entrepreneurial community and believes that by celebrating these successes, BNU not only recognises the hard work and dedication of the community, but also inspires others to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions."

For more information about how BNU can support your enterprise journey, contact the team at [email protected].

Written by the team at Buckinghamshire New University

Editor's notes:

Find out who won at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2025! For the list of winners, as well as photos, videos and reaction from the big night, visit the Buckinghamshire Business Awards homepage.