SIX weeks ago, Wendy Scott, from Guisborough didn't even have a business idea.

Now she's resigned from her marketing job, is in the process of setting up an event management company, and has won her first contract - organising a charity ball for the Lavender Trust.

She is one of 12 budding entrepreneur finalists in the Enterprise Island pioneering challenge launched by One North-East, which aims to show how any member of the public can set up a business with the right help and advice.

In spite of having no business idea, she impressed the judges with her optimism and enthusiasm.

"When I started this journey, I never thought I would be where I am now in just a matter of weeks," she said. "Handing my notice in was incredibly liberating but I know there's a long way to go and I'm trying to keep my feet on the ground.

"There's a lot to handle as a one-man band and it's pretty scary but winning my first contract has been a tremendous boost. This is in no small part due to the support and advice I've received through the Enterprise Island challenge, which so far has been a fantastic experience."

Newton Aycliffe participant Tim Leadbitter has strong personal motivation for wanting to start a business, and a very clear business vision.

He discovered a gap in the market, after becoming increasingly frustrated at the lack of good quality and affordable furniture and equipment available for his disabled daughter, Sophie.

He was determined to design and manufacture the type of products needed and has benefited considerably from Enterprise Island.

"With the knowledge I've gained on Enterprise Island, I've already developed a company name, designed my business stationery and I am in the process of setting up a web site," said Mr Leadbitter.

"I've also built a workshop in the garden to manufacture product prototypes, which can be tested out on friends.

"Emotionally it has been very difficult, trying to juggle family commitments at the same time as building a new business, but I'm sure it will be well worth it in the end."

To help them develop the skills necessary to start a business, the Islanders have undertaken an intensive programme of residential weekends, master classes and mentoring.

They are now gearing up to present their business plans to some of the region's must successful entrepreneurs to test out the viability and sustainability of their ideas.

Iain Scott, the man behind the Enterprise Island concept, is delighted with their progress.

"We have been really impressed with the effort all the participants have put into their chosen ventures. Although some are further down the road to starting their business than others, everyone has learnt some invaluable business lessons and I'm confident that they will all be trading by the end of the challenge.

"The experiences of the Enterprise Islanders show that starting a business is not rocket science and anyone can do it, as everyone has an entrepreneurial spark inside them.

"Families, friends and professionals are always around to provide a support network. It may not be easy but if you have a viable idea and the strength to see it through, there's nothing to stop you giving it a go."

The One North-East-funded challenge is supported by individual mentors and Business Link, who are already working with many of the Enterprise Island entrants who did not make it to the final.