Search for a winner entering its final stages

Jun 2 2009 by Karen McLauchlan, Evening Gazette

THE search is on to find Tees Valley’s next generation of entrepreneurs with the If We Can, You Can challenge.

The nebusiness-backed competition recently named its two local finalists Louise Bell, 36, from Stockton, who set up Healthy Glow - a home spray tanning business - who is now battling it out with Mark Easby, 31, from Middlesbrough, who runs Better - a creative brand agency.

But time is running out to cast your vote and crown this year’s winner.

Telephone and internet voting closes at midnight on Sunday.

The two finalists beat off stiff competition from four fellow entrepreneurs, who were given the chance to tap into the minds of the experienced opportunity panel during a 20-minute judging session.

Readers can cast their vote by either texting 'megaz' followed by a space and the full name of the selected finalists to 07624 803 199; or by e-mailing voting@entrepreneursforum.net with the full name of their chosen winner.

The public vote will then be combined with the judges' scores to determine the overall winner who will be announced on June 11.

As well as becoming a face of entrepreneurship, the winner will claim a unique prize package, including a 'money can't buy' mentoring surgery, £5,000 worth of business services and a business gadget.

Louise, who is hoping to turn her spray tanning business into a national franchise, said: “To win this challenge after only being in business for a few months would be incredible.”

Mark said the voting process was proving to be “exciting and nerve-wracking” but added: “I'm certainly looking forward to how things go.”

Further information on how to vote can be found at www.ifwecanyoucan.co.uk