Businesses urged to showcase their commercial talents

Open to all businesses, the competition is designed to recognise and promote the best businesses in Northern Ireland through a series of regional heats followed by the National Final, which will be held in London on November 29.

There are nine categories to choose from, covering international business, people development, excellence in innovation, marketing, new business, customer service, sustainability, entrepreneur of the year and business of the year.

The Awards, which are now in their ninth year, highlights the role of business as a positive force for the UK recovery and the success of local communities and individuals.

Ann McGregor, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, said: “This year we want everyone to understand the contribution business makes to the economy and to society as a whole. Businesses will be at the forefront of the recovery, providing jobs, and creating wealth.

“Every day we hear amazing stories from Northern Ireland companies that are innovative, successful in international markets, and create new products. It is stories like these that we are looking to find and recognise through the Chamber Awards. Last year, over 600 firms took part and 2012 promises to be even bigger.’”

Closing date for entries is June 29, with companies assessed at a regional level first, with the winners going through to compete in the National Final in November.

At this stage, a high-profile judging panel of business leaders and entrepreneurs assesses contenders, before the overall winners are announced in each category with one company winning the £25,000 cash prize and the Outstanding Business Achievement title.

To enter online go to www.chamberawards.co.uk or for further information you can contact the Chamber Awards Team on 02476 472593, email [email protected] or follow @chamberawards