Accelerateher Awards launch online programme for 2021
Organisers of the AccelerateHER Awards have launched the 2021 programme, which will best aged online including a virtual finals event celebrating the achievements of “inspiring and ambitious” female business-founders.
Next year marks the sixth consecutive year of the awards, which are designed to inspire and support more female-led companies with strong global growth potential – and the aim is to offer the full programme virtually.
The 2021 awards are open to applications from women whose companies fit into one of the following four categories: medtech and science; fintech and cyber security; cleantech and climate; or disruptive innovation. All companies must be Uk-registered, and trading, or intending to trade, in Scotland, and the deadline for entries is 4 December. Shortlisted entrants from each of the categories will present online to a panel in February, with up to 12 being selected as finalists. A winner for each category, as well as a Rising Star – for the female founder with the best early-stage business idea – will be announced at a virtual awards finals event on 25 March.
Winners will again secure a place on an international trade mission to Europe, North America or the Middle East, planned for later in 2021.
Jackie Waring, chief executive of Investing Women, the all-female angel group behind the Accelerateher Awards, said: “While Covid-19 has had a profound impact on the global economy, it has not stopped female founders from continuing to excel across the business community.”