Internationally renowned Scottish entrepreneur, Michelle Mone launches Marie Curie's 50/50 challenge last week to raise money for Glasgow's Big Build Appeal.

Michelle, who came up with the idea to launch Ultimo - now one of the UK's leading lingerie brands, is encouraging business people to take up the challenge of turning £50 into more within 50 days, to make as much profit as possible for the charity.

Entrepreneurial types and business brains can take up the challenge individually or as a team in hope of becoming the Glasgow 50/50 Champion. The £50 'seed money' allows business brains to go wild as they think of the most entrepreneurial way to turn £50 into hundreds for the charity. As the Big Build Appeal reaches £13.8million it is hoped that this challenge will make a mint for the worthwhile cause.

The countdown is on for a much needed new Marie Curie Hospice in Glasgow. With eight months to go until it opens in Spring 2010 the Big Build Appeal welcomes Michelle's support and hopes the inspiring entrepreneur will excite others to raise money towards the remaining £2.3 million needed to reach the fundraising target of £16.1 million.

Glasgow born Michelle, who is the founder and co-owner of MJM International Ltd is excited to front such an innovative fundraising initiative, she said: "This is a really exciting challenge and a brilliant opportunity to come up with some creative money making ideas. It reminds me of the challenges set by Sir Alan on the Apprentice- but I'm sure the people of Glasgow will do a great job and rise to the occasion!"

The successful business woman is aware of the work of Marie Curie Cancer Care, particularly that of the Glasgow hospice as she added: "The new Marie Curie Hospice is undoubtedly a much needed facility for the people of Glasgow. Marie Curie provided care and support for my Granddad before he passed away, which is why I'm so delighted to be backing this initiative to raise more cash for a great cause."

Gemma McDonald, capital appeal manager said: "It is great to have Michelle's support for this initiative. We always look for new and engaging ways for people to help us fundraise and this one allows people to be entrepreneurial in their approach. And to have one of Scotland's best known entrepreneurs backing the initiative will surely inspire others. We are all very excited to see what people come up with!"

"Work began on our new hospice in April 2008 and all is on schedule for us to be open in Spring 2010. We are thankful to all our supporters who have got us this far and now we have Michelle to add to the list. The new hospice is about care provision for the future and it will undoubtedly make a huge difference to the people of Glasgow and beyond".

The challenge runs from October 1 to November 19, 2009. Participants will be given £50 on registering which must be returned after the challenge finishes. Additional money raised through the activity goes directly to the Big Build. All participants will be invited to a celebration party with some of Scotland's famous entrepreneurs and the most successful challenger will be a VIP guest at the hospice opening.

For more information on how to get involved log on to www.bigbuild.org.uk or e-mail [email protected] or call 0141 531 1380/07917234592.

www.bigbuild.org.uk