Entries invited for The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2008

Applications are now being invited for the annual Queens' Awards for Enterprise from UK-based businesses excelling in International Trade, Innovation or Sustainable Development.

Outstanding companies in the agricultural sector are amongst those being urged to apply for an Award – commonly seen as the equivalent of a 'corporate knighthood'. The deadline for entries is midnight on 31 October 2007.

Unlike traditional award schemes, there is no limit to the number of Queen's Awards that can be won each year. Firms apply for an Award in one or more of the three categories and if their achievements are deemed truly outstanding for their sector, they stand every chance of winning an Award.

This year, organisers have made it even 'e-asier' for businesses to apply, as applications can now be made on-line for the first time at www.queensawards.org.uk.

"Over the years, the agricultural sector has been well represented in The Queen's Awards, but I'm convinced there are many more worthy firms out there who could be in line for an Award," says Stephen Brice, Secretary to The Queen's Awards Office. "The Queen's Awards are all about celebrating the best examples of British-based businesses, large and small, from every sector. They also bring substantial benefits to winners in terms of reputation and recognition."

Any business with two or more employees can apply for a Queen's Award. This year, 119 Awards were announced on 21 April, Her Majesty's Birthday. Winners benefit from extensive publicity, boosts to staff morale and use of the Queen's Award Emblem for five years. 70% of last year's winners said that winning a Queen's Award had brought their company added commercial value.

Meanwhile, nominations are now also being sought for The Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion – an Award for individuals designed to reward those who have played an outstanding and significant role in promoting the growth of enterprise or entrepreneurial skills and attitudes in others. Individuals can be nominated online by colleagues, associates or beneficiaries of their work.

To find out more about all categories of The Queen's Award for Enterprise, visit www.queensawards.org.uk. All applications and nominations for the 2008 Awards must be received by midnight on 31 October 2007.