Affordable Car Hire chief executive Angela Day has been recognised in the Inspiration Awards for Women.
Day, who co-founded Affordable 11 years ago, won the Inspirational Company Award.
Sky Andrew, founder of awards, which raise money for Breast Cancer Now, described Day as “having achieved great things in her career”.
The ceremony was held at Cadogan Hall earlier this month with the other winners including athlete Jessica Ennis and actress Kate Winslet.
“I had absolutely no idea I was up for this award until I was shortlisted so it is very special to have won,” said Day.
“It was very different going to an awards ceremony outside of the travel industry and I met some fascinating people there.”
Determined to start her own business with husband James in 2004 but faced with banks unwilling to lend, Day remortgaged their home, sold the couple’s car, and extended their credit cards.
The garage was turned into an office and Affordable Car Hire was launched.
The business has grown to comprise a multilingual website displaying more than 500 car rental companies in 192 countries.
Earlier this year Affordable launched in Australia, New Zealand, UAE, and several European countries and it is set to achieve £20 million turnover in 2016.
“Hearing about the charity being supported and all they do was also a very special part of the evening,” continued Day.
“I feel very honoured – it was like getting an early Christmas present.
“In my speech I reiterated that I am only as good as the team around me.”