The champions include a butcher, baker and candlestick maker and will give their time and successful business experiences to charities, communities and social groups.

Each of the champions has been chosen because they have used No Limits support and finance to overcome barriers to successfully start their own businesses. Using their experiences, the champions will be able to advise and support others in starting businesses.

Ishwer Tailor, who is leading the project for No Limits, said: "It is great for the champions to be on board and for their expertise to be used in helping others understand and overcome the barriers in starting a business.

"Not only will they help other entrepreneurs but they will also commit time to helping their communities. The long range goal of the project is to grow a range of successful new businesses which are deeply rooted in their communities. These companies can then reinvest their energy and enthusiasm into making a difference in the lives of friends and families where they live, work and play."

Champion, Steve McKelvey, of Maxlocal Ltd, said: "I am thrilled to help put something back into the community and help people through this exciting new role. No Limits has helped us and I am now glad to repay them in this way."

Other champions include Aiyub Patel from Famous Driving School, Lynda Moore of Greenhouse HIP, Mehoob Vadiaya or Veritas Solicitors, Paul Martin from Itoon IT Solutions, David and Karina Wachowiak of K&D Support Translations and Yasir Ahmed from Crystal Baths.

The champions project is funded by No Limits which has secured an initial £30m of government funding to regenerate the Pennine Lancashire economy through supporting new and growing businesses, creating up to 13,000 jobs and 4,000 companies over the next decade.

No Limits is a partnership which includes Lancashire County Council, the local authorities of Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn and Pendle as well Burnley FC, Accrington Stanley and Blackburn Rovers.

To learn how No Limits can help you call 0800 612 2029 or visit www.no-limits.org.uk