The annual BEST Business Awards is now inviting applications from businesses in Bristol's inner city.

From small beginnings, the BEST Business Awards have grown into a prestigious annual event. The awards are about celebrating the successful businesses in inner city Bristol. From new start-ups to the more established and thriving enterprises, the awards hope to reflect the huge talent, diversity and success that can be found in Bristol.

The traditional categories of the awards are New Business, Women in Enterprise, Business of the Year and the Special Recognition Award.

And in 2007, two new categories have been added to the existing four awards. The Creative Business Award, in association with Bristol Creatives, aims to recognise the achievements of an inspirational individual or business working within Bristol’s thriving Creative Industry, while The Challenge Award will honour a local entrepreneur who has overcome significant personal challenges to achieve business success.

Sandra Duck, whose ‘Women In Enterprise’ is supporting one of the categories says:

“The awards are a real opportunity for businesses to promote their achievements. We have some of the most dynamic and exciting enterprises in the Eastside and it is important that they are given an opportunity to shine.”

Winning an award can give a huge personal boost too, as 2004 winner June Burrough from the Pierian Centre can testify:

“There is no doubt that winning awards does have a positive impact on business. Even three years later, customers still make reference to the fact that we were voted Business of the Year. On a personal level, it helped to confirm that we were doing the right things in the right way. Whilst it is always an honour to receive an award, to have been recognised by my own community for the work that the Pierian Centre does within that community, will always mean more than any other accolade.”

To enter for an award or to nominate someone else please download an application form below.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 26th October and the awards ceremony will take place after the BEST AGM at 7pm on Wednesday 14th November at Circomedia, Portland Square, Bristol.

If you need advice or assistance, please contact the BEST team on 0117 9166421 or email info@bristoleastsidetraders.co.uk