NFBP - Does your business shine?

Does your business shine?

The deadline for the New Forest Brilliance in Business Awards is approaching fast and time to running out to submit your entry.

Many local companies have already thrown their hat in the ring to compete for a place in this prestigious new award scheme, but there is still time to apply online at www.nfbp.org.uk before the deadline on 13th October.

The awards have been launched by the New Forest Business Partnership and are made possible by a number of top level local sponsors.  With one overall winner and five individual categories, the scheme should give each and every successful business in the New Forest area a chance of recognition.

Chairman of the New Forest Business Partnership, Barry Olorenshaw said: “The award scheme will celebrate the achievements of businesses in this area and encourage companies to network and share good practice.

“Whatever the size of your business and whether you are an established company or just starting out, if your business is successful we would like to hear from you. The judges will be looking for a high level of achievement in a number of specialist areas including investing in the workforce, innovation and entrepreneurship.”

The presentation of the awards will take place at Rhinefield House Hotel in Brockenhurst on 28 November 2006. The Hon Ralph Montagu, whose family is associated with Beaulieu, will present the awards.

All applications must be from members of the New Forest Partnership but membership is free and can also be made on the website.

The five categories are:

The ExxonMobil Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

For leading the way in product and concept development. This award will highlight companies who have used these ideas to benefit workforce and customers alike.

The Hampshire County Council Award for Contribution to the Community:

For recognising the importance of a real commitment to the local community and demonstrating tangible impact and clear results.

The Totton College Award for Training and Development:

For businesses offering outstanding career opportunities. The winner will show how this investment has allowed the company to advance performance.

New Forest Produce Ltd Award for best use of local resources:

For outstanding or innovative use of local resources in a sustainable way, including locally produced food, craft or other goods. Also eligible will be businesses making imaginative use, through marketing or other activity, of local distinctiveness and the unique quality of the area's natural environment.

HSBC Award for the best new business:

For either innovation in terms of a new business idea, or demonstration of exceptional skills in the establishment and development of a business started within the previous 2 years.

NFBP acts as a forum for local business people to express their views, share their knowledge and experience, network with potential clients and suppliers, and help make changes that will benefit their business. It has a close working relationship with New Forest District Council through the economic development team. The leader of the council sits on the board of the partnership, as does the portfolio holder for economy and planning.

Ffor more information on the awards or on the New Forest Business Partnership visit www.nfbp.org.uk