If we can, you can Challenge 08 Winner Testimonials

Michelle Taylor

"The IWCYC competition was the catalyst I needed to finally go through with my dream of running my own business. I had had the dream and burning desire for about 5 years when I entered the IWCYC competition. As I typed in my details I had no idea of the exciting twists and turns my life would then take. When I was chosen as a finalist for my area I was overjoyed and it gave me the confidence once I won to knowing the people of Hartlepool were behind me too (as Hartlepool Mail readers had to vote for the winner).

It's great being part of the IWCYC community and I’m happy knowing that if I come across a problem there is probably someone who has encountered a similar one somewhere along their travels.

The organisers of the campaign from the Entrepreneurs Forum have become friends over the last 6 months and their support and advice has got me through the highs and the lows of setting up a business.

Many links have been made and I now have a varied Network of folk in the area. The North East has a lot of passionate/talented people. Thanks IWCYC team for bringing them together!!"


Matt Scott

"When I won the IWCYC challenge, I completely underestimated how much it can actually do for you. The one thing that helped more than all of the main prizes could, was being put in a room with so many great entrepreneurs and business people, at the Forum Annual Conference.

Apart from the amazing guest speakers, the networks of people you get into, and how much people are willing to help, be it through 'been there done it' advice, guidance or business support, gives you a huge advantage over others in your position.

The people I met here changed the direction of my business. I think without that, I would not be in the position I am now."

Rosie Willett

"Being involved with the Challenge has had many positive effects on my business. It has given me the opportunity to mix with like-minded people, which is great for someone like me who usually works alone. I have also been given a great deal of advice and guidance through attending Entrepreneurs' Forum events.Since becoming a finalist I benefited from the publicity generated by the Entrepreneurs' Forum (getting my picture in the paper with Elle Macpherson was a personal highlight!)"

Matt Stirland

"Winning the If we can, you can Challenge gave me a good 12 to 24 months head start in business. I’ve become someone who’s recognised in the business community and that’s a huge help.

THANK YOU all at the Forum. The networking I have done has been so positive and for future work so promising.

I realised that all this amazing PR which I’m sure people pay hundreds even thousands for is from the If we can, you can campaign. Which both of you have worked so hard. I hope you realise that there will be many people like me who think the same. Your work and the effort you put in is really appreciated. Thank you."

Greg Phillips

“It’s been a real whirlwind of a year for us! Part of the prize package I was fortunate enough to win from the Challenge was a business mentor, which was the most appealing part of the prize package for me. I’m always looking to develop myself as an entrepreneur and learn from people who have been there and done that, so I was thrilled to be given this opportunity.”

Gavin Blowman

"Winning the Challenge really benefitted us, not only with the attention we received for the company, but the prize we received. Additionally, we have really benefitted from the advice we’ve received from our business mentor."