Local entrepreneurs recognised for making a powerful contribution to society, the economy and communities

Two Entrepreneurs from Glasgow and Edinburgh have been named as two of the UK’s most 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs by Small Business Britain’s f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign.

Carol Jackson who founded Glasgow’s ‘Ellis Gin’ and Leanne Farmer who founded ‘A wee pedal’ cycle tours in Edinburgh are being showcased alongside 100 female entrepreneurs from across the UK, as part of the campaign’s recognition of the multi-achievements of women that have proved critical to society during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now in its fourth year, f:Entrepreneur was launched in 2017  to highlight amazing female role models to help and inspire all small businesses, through content, stories and events. It particularly aims to showcase trailblazing female entrepreneurs that lead small businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community support, activities

Indeed, both entrepreneurs were called out for their support and volunteering in the local community.

Carol was called out not only for her drive, determination and dedication during the 2020

pandemic – but also for her support and volunteering in the local community – raising much needed cash for local charities by running virtual gin events and contributing 10% of money raised during a crowdfunder campaign to the NHS Togethers charity.

Leanne loaned out her fleet of bikes to keyworkers and servicing bikes as well as offering free community rides throughout the year. A busy year for Leanne, she has won not only one, but 3 national awards for ‘Best start – up business’ for her resilience and adaptability during 2020.

From beekeepers to PPE, tech entrepreneurs to pole-dance-enthusiasts, this year’s campaign celebrates inspiring and resilient female entrepreneurs that have flourished despite Covid-19, with many still growing or starting new ventures.

On being listed in the #ialso100,

Carol said: “I am absolutely ecstatic to have been included alongside all the other inspirational Small Business Leaders. 2020 was a struggle for all businesses however we are pleased that we stayed focusssed and came out of the pandemic thriving and are looking forward to the opportunities that 2021 will bring. And being one of only two Scottish Business Owners recognized is amazing.

Leanne said: “I’m delighted to be chosen as part of the ‘100’ and honoured to be listed alongside the other women who have remained positive and determined throughout the pandemic. During 2020, like most other small businesses, I had to adapt and re-focus my business. I needed to feel useful and purposeful during the pandemic so I started running women-only bike maintenance classes and confidence rides for women who re-discovered cycling as well as family friendly cycle tours for locals who had no bike or confidence on where to go. I really love what I do and get enormous joy out of all aspects A wee pedal now provides.”

Both f:Entrepreneur and Small Business Britain were founded by Michelle Ovens CBE, who is also the director of Small Business Saturday UK.

“Congratulations to all the inspiring women chosen to join this year’s #ialso100,” said Michelle Ovens. “Despite the significant obstacles thrown at them in the last year, female entrepreneurship continues to grow and flourish. We need to continue, and increase, our support for these incredible women and celebrate their amazing strength and success in the face of huge challenges.”

“We have seen so many women embracing change, generating and exploring new ideas, rallying around their communities and supporting their peers. This resilience is hugely valuable and will set them up for success as they will be at the very heart of the UK’s recovery.”

To see the full list of the 100 amazing women featured in this year’s f:entrepreneur #ialso100 campaign  visit https://f-entrepreneur.com/fentrepreneur-100/