The BIBAs Foundation has been established by Lancashire’s biggest business awards to enhance enterprise amongst young Lancastrians with a fund of over £30,000 available.

 

The charity has been created by the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce organised BIBA Awards and the Community Foundation for Lancashire, to make grants of up to £2,000 to 16-24 year olds in the county, encouraging the development of skills and further build business in the region.

 

The opening balance of the BIBAs Foundation is £30,6961, this has been generated by the net profited created following 2014’s awards’ ceremony at Blackpool Tower, along with additional donations pledged on the night.

 

Funds will be distributed by Community Foundation for Lancashire which is part of a national movement of community foundations which undertakes strategic grant making, facilitates philanthropy and contributes to social change in communities.

 

Karen Morris, a spokesman for the Lancashire Community Foundation, said the charitable body would “create an enterprising legacy” for the county’s young people.

 

She said: “The challenge is out there to Lancashire’s young people to put together their bids to the BIBAs Foundation.

 

“Our promise is that we will back those who we believe embody the enterprising spirit which has become synonymous with these awards.

 

“The BIBAs Foundation will support and empower young people to become motivated, creative and inspired employees, business owners and leaders of the future.”

 

Lancashire Community Foundation is now looking for additional donations from Lancashire’s business community to create a growing fund which will facilitate young entrepreneurs in establishing new businesses and enterprise initiatives.

 

Norman Tenray, OBAS CEO said: “As President of the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, Member of the Development Advisory Group and Fellow of Community Foundation for Lancashire, I have seen first-hand the tremendous work these vital organisations undertake and the need within the community.

 

“I’m certain that the BIBAs Foundation, with the leadership of these two key organisation combined forcess, will be dedicated to its mission with confidence and commitment, stimulating growth and employment, through enhancing the entrepreneurial zeal in many of Lancashire’s young people who will become our future leaders and entrepreneurs.”

 

From the end of January, youngsters will be able to make applications to the Foundation’s fund through www.thebibas.co.uk or www.lancsfoundation.org.uk websites, we strongly recommend that everyone should get involved – this is our future and OUR responsibility!