FLEDGLING businesses with big ideas are in line for expert help from leading entrepreneurs.

Today the Evening Times launches the second year of the highly successful Local Business Accelerators scheme.

In partnership with the Newspaper Society and the Institute of Directors in Scotland (IoD), the Evening Times is one of 500 participating newspapers across the UK seeking out the most dynamic, ambitious and interesting local companies and pairing them up with top local business mentors, while allocating free advertising space for the their business.

The national campaign, designed to showcase the benefit of the local press, is spearheaded by Dragons Dens star Deborah Meaden, who will personally mentor the eventual nationwide winner.

Laura Gordon, chairwoman of the IoD in Glasgow and the West of Scotland said: "The value of a mentor relationship to businesses and their leaders cannot be under stated.

"The experience, knowledge and wisdom of someone who has been through building and growing a business is immeasurable and for those willing to listen and learn, the right support can make all the difference."

Prime Minister David Cameron added: "The Local Business Accelerators campaign has provided tremendous support to fledgling businesses across the country and I am delighted that it will be running for a second year.

"Local newspapers play a vital role in their communities and are uniquely placed to support small businesses, giving them the boost that they need to grow, which is good for local areas and good for the economy as a whole."

Adrian Jeakings, president of the Newpaper Society, added: "The inaugural Local Business Accelerators campaign was a resounding success and this year it is going to be even bigger.

"LBA demonstrated that local newspapers have a unique ability to deliver a real boost to local businesses."

Any business in operation between one and five years can enter the competition with the Evening Times. See www. accelerateme.co.uk to register.