Big Business News
Nina awarded Influential Woman Award - Business & Community Leadership 2026
North Wales entrepreneur and community leader Nina Sardar has been named Influential Woman in Business & Community Leadership 2026.
The award recognises her work as founder of The North Wales Business Network (NWBN) and Big Business North Wales (BBNW), alongside her continued commitment to connecting businesses, creating opportunities and strengthening the regional economy.
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Building North Wales’ business community
Founded in October 2010, The North Wales Business Network delivers more than 150 events each year across North Wales and towards the Cheshire border, connecting entrepreneurs, companies, public bodies, charities and voluntary organisations. Members have generated more than £14 million in invoiced busines to date and raised over £21,000 for local charities since 2010.
Nina’s approach is clear: build trust, create meaningful connections and turn relationships into real opportunities.
Taking the vision further with Big Business North Wales
In 2026, Nina launched Big Business North Wales, a major regional exhibition bringing together businesses, investors, educators, organisations and decision-makers.
The inaugural event at Venue Cymru attracted more than 1,000 attendees and generated millions in secured contracts and business.
The event returns on Tuesday 15 June 2027 at Venue Cymru, Llandudno, with more than 160 exhibitors planned across 10,000 square metres of exhibition space.
For Nina, Big Business North Wales is about more than an exhibition. It is a powerful platform to showcase North Wales, encourage local sourcing and connect organisations with the people shaping the region’s future.
A career built around community
Nina’s career spans more than two decades across business development, marketing, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
She has held senior roles, supported women and entrepreneurs across Wales, mentored business leaders and served on industry panels focused on leadership and management.
Her previous recognition includes Wales Business Insider Rising Star, the ion Leadership Award at the Conwy Business Awards, and recognition within the UK small business and female founder community.
“It’s really about the people - thank you to my incredible team, members, exhibitors and all who are part of this incredible business community.”
“I’m absolutely delighted to receive the Influential Woman Award in Business & Community Leadership 2026.
“Business has never simply been about building a company. It has always been about people — bringing people together, opening doors and creating opportunities for businesses to grow.
“North Wales has an incredible business community, and I feel privileged to play a part in bringing it together.
“I’m proud of what we have created, but even more excited about what comes next.”
With The North Wales Business Network expanding its programme and Big Business North Wales preparing for its 2027 exhibition, Nina remains focused on creating opportunities and strengthening the connections that drive the North Wales economy.
The Influential Woman Award in Business & Community Leadership 2026 recognises a career built on one clear belief: when people and businesses support one another, the whole community grows.