Entrepreneur Poonam Gupta set to make history at Edinburgh awards
Entrepreneur Poonam Gupta OBE will make history in Edinburgh next week when she becomes the first woman to receive the WeDO Scotland Lifetime Achievement Award.
Gupta, who is the founder of international paper trading company PG Paper, has been recognised for her remarkable entrepreneurial journey, her contribution to Scotland’s economy and international trade, as well as her commitment to creating opportunities for women in business.
Originally from India, Gupta arrived in Scotland and struggled to secure employment despite her qualifications. Undeterred, she launched PG Paper from her home in 2003, going on to build a highly successful international business trading across more than 60 countries.
Her journey from facing rejection in the Scottish jobs market to becoming one of the country’s most prominent entrepreneurs is a powerful example of resilience, ambition and determination.
Over more than two decades, Gupta has established herself as an influential figure in international business, playing a significant role in strengthening commercial relationships between Scotland and India while championing entrepreneurship, diversity and female leadership.
Her achievements extend far beyond business growth. Through her mentoring, advocacy and philanthropic activities, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to supporting others and creating opportunities for future generations of entrepreneurs.
Poonam Gupta said:
“I am truly honoured to receive the WeDO Scotland Lifetime Achievement Award. Scotland has been a very special part of my entrepreneurial journey, and I am proud to have played a role in strengthening trade links between Scotland and India, as well as supporting and encouraging women in business.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the highest honours presented by WeDO Scotland, the entrepreneurial community established in 2008 to support and connect Scotland’s established business founders and senior leaders.
Belinda Roberts, founder and CEO of WeDO Scotland, commented:
“Poonam’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. What makes her such a worthy recipient of this award is that her success has never been just about building a profitable business. She has used her experience, influence and connections to open doors for others, strengthen international relationships and champion the next generation of entrepreneurs.
“I’m particularly delighted that Poonam is our first female Lifetime Achievement Award winner. There are so many remarkable women making an enormous contribution to Scotland’s economy, and recognising their achievements and influence is hugely important.”
Gupta joins a distinguished group of previous recipients, including Archangel Investors co-founder the late Barry Sealey CBE, Commsworld founder Ricky Nicol and Carbon Financial Partners founder Gordon Wilson.
The award will be presented at the WeDO Scotland Conference & Awards on Thursday 5 November 2026. The event brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders and senior executives to celebrate outstanding achievement across Scotland’s SME community.
Now in their 14th year, the WeDO Scotland Awards recognise business success, exceptional leadership, innovation and the individuals and companies making a significant contribution to Scotland’s economy.