Finalists announced for the first Northern Power Women Awards

The finalists of the first Northern Power Women Awards 2016 have been announced.

Winners of the new awards programme, celebrating both men and women supporting gender diversity, will be revealed on 3rd March at Manchester Hilton Hotel, Deansgate.

Shortlisted candidates are chosen from different business sectors, including an eco-friendly cleaning company and young tech entrepreneurs saving student’s money.

The awards was set up in March 2015 by the Northern Power Women to campaign for improving gender diversity in the North of England and to celebrate female achievements.

Simone Roche, founder of Northern Power Women, said: “We had a tough time choosing our shortlist, which on its own reflects the deep pool of impressive talent the North has to offer.

“We believe the Chancellor’s Northern Powerhouse will not be able to deliver without recognising the full potential of the northern workforce, and that includes both men and women in equal measure.”

Jo Swinson, Former Business Minister and one of the event judges, said: “I’m supporting Northern Power Women because our economy will only thrive if we harness the full talents of women and men in the workplace.

“We should celebrate the individuals changing organisations to make this happen and it is important that this happens right across the country.”

Winners will be announced under these nine categories: Agent of Change, One to Watch, Mentor of the Year, Outstanding Entrepreneur, Person with Purpose, Transformational Leader, Small Business, Medium Business and Large Business.

Full list of shortlisted nominees.