A Wrexham entrepreneur has been crowned the winner of the Hospitality, Tourism & Events Startup of the Year at the 2025 Wales StartUp Awards.
Katie Griffiths was recognised at the event for her start-up business, North Wales Days Out & Events Ltd.
She founded the company in 2024 in a bid to provide members of the public with a comprehensive hub of what is going on across the region.
Katie, a mum of two, was inspired to start the business after struggling to find local, family-friendly events and activities for her children.
The community-first online directory helps local residents find out what is going on across the region — from scenic walks and cosy cafés to family-friendly classes, clubs and events.
Her work promoting local events led to her nomination and eventual win at the UK StartUp Awards.
The event was created to highlight the success of start-ups across ten UK nations and regions and to celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs in all sectors of the economy.
“Winning this award means the absolute world to me,” said Katie.
“It’s a recognition of the hours of work, passion, and belief I’ve poured into building something meaningful for the people and businesses of North Wales.
“Also, I couldn’t have done any of it without my two little boys by my side, coming along on countless walks, beach days and adventures as we captured what makes our region so special.
“This award has given me a real boost — and I’m more determined than ever to grow this into the go-to platform for local residents across North Wales.”
Entrepreneurship in Wales is gaining momentum, driven by a new generation of founders who are combining innovation and resilience with a sense of community.
According to Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, creator of the UK StartUp Awards, this surge in start-up ambition reflects a new generation of entrepreneurs who are not only identifying opportunities but are also building innovative, resilient businesses that are shaping the future of the regional economy.
“Entrepreneurs across Wales are reshaping the economic landscape, turning bold ideas into thriving ventures and ambition into meaningful impact,” said Professor Jones-Evans OBE.
“That’s why we created the StartUp Awards, to celebrate the individuals who are building something from nothing and making a real difference in their communities.
“Across the country, from coastal towns to city centres, Welsh entrepreneurs are developing everything from cutting-edge digital solutions to
sustainable food brands and green energy businesses that are all grounded in a deep sense of place, purpose, and national pride.”
“I’m delighted that North Wales Days Out & Events Ltd has won their category at the awards and I’m looking forward to having them join the ‘best of the best’ from Wales competing at the UK final later this year.”
All regional winners in their category will now progress to the UK StartUp Awards final, taking place at Ideas Fest on September 11 (dubbed the “Glastonbury for Entrepreneurs.”) joining winners from nine other nations and regions.
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