An initiative started in Leicester to support Asian founders is set to host its very first awards ceremony this year.
Asian Founders began as Barclays Eagle Labs and De Montfort University programme in 2023 with events around the country. Since then it has expended to 10 cities, connecting more than 1,000 founders across the UK.
Now Ecosystem Manager Poonam Sharma has announced that an awards ceremony dedicated to Asian entrepreneurs will take place in September 2026. She said:
“Three years ago I had an idea and when I have an idea I but I move at 100mph to make in happen. This idea has now become a reality.
“I wanted to create something that truly supported Asian Founders not just to start businesses but to grow, scale and build companies that create real impact in the UK and beyond. A platform where founders could be seen, heard, connected and celebrated.”
The awards will be open to businesses nationwide with judges to be announced soon.