Scottish Borders Council launches the 2013/14 Business Excellence Awards today, Thursday, which are being backed by The Southern.
The awards, with main sponsor Scottish Borders Living, will celebrate local businesses that show vision and commitment in their respective fields.
As the economy starts to improve, many local businesses are demonstrating excellence and helping to drive the recovery.
Councillor Stuart Bell, executive member for economic development, said: “The Business Excellence Awards are a great opportunity for Borders businesses from all sectors to receive the recognition they deserve.
“The awards will showcase entrepreneurism, innovation and creativity, and I encourage all businesses to enter.”
Mr Bell added: “Recent economic conditions have been difficult, but we know from our ongoing work with businesses that there are great examples of investment, growth, commitment, and resilience.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to gain the recognition they deserve for their achievements, and to publicise their successes.”
The closing date for applications is Monday, March 24 and the winners will be announced at a business lunch event on April 25 in Galashiels.
Partners from the private and public sectors have backed sponsored individual categories, while The Southern Reporter has joined as media sponsor.
Award applications can be made online at www.ourscottishborders.com or by contacting Stuart Kinross on 01835 826505 for a form.
Categories and sponsors are: Start-up/New Business of the Year (Porter’s Porches & Conservatories); International Business Award (Bank of Scotland); Employer of the Year (Skills Development Scotland); Tourism Business Award (Area Tourism Partnership); Retail & Town Centre Business Award (Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce); Technology & Innovation Award (QubeGB); Marketing Campaign of the Year (GMP Printing); Environmental Business Award (ProStrakan); Rural Business of the Year (Forestry Commission).