Two of Future50's many success stories have urged the next generation of businesses not to miss out on a chance to accelerate their growth.

When it comes to business success, they have the trophies to prove it.

Events Under Canvas were the winners of the Future50 One to Watch award at the East Anglian Daily Times business awards this summer.

And when founder Jenna Ackerley climbed on stage to receive her award, it was from Candace Rose of Suffolk Canine Creche, who had won the award in 2016 before graduating to become a sponsor.

Now they are both urging the next crop of ambitious young businesses to take advantage of the support on offer by applying to be in the Future50 Class of 2018.

Ms Rose said: 'Becoming a Future50 company gives you kudos and profile, as well as access to all different types of experts, so irrespective of what your business is going through, there is someone you can turn to – that's invaluable.

'It has also helped us to access somewhere in the region of £10,000 worth of grants, which has helped us grow that little bit faster. Membership has also helped us with access to loans as we develop our franchise business.'

Since it launched six years ago, Suffolk Canine Creche has collected many awards and developed a fast-growing franchise side to the business, with around 12 new outlets expected to be open by the end of the year.

Ms Rose added: 'With Future50, there's also lots of networking opportunities – from which I've got business as well as good idea. There's so much and I'm a big believer in you get out what you put in.'

Ms Ackerley said access to funding and networking opportunities were two key benefits of Events Under Canvas's membership of Future50.

She said: 'We were able to access a 20% grant for all our initial capital purchases and also had the support of a business adviser who walked us through the application process.'

In just four years the East Bergholt-based business has grown its turnover to £650,000 and this year catered for 180 events across the region.

Ms Ackerley added: 'Becoming a Future50 company also raises your profile – which is important for a business starting out.'

Applications for the Future50 Class of 2018 can be made at www.edp24.co.uk/business/future50 or eadt.co.uk/business/future50