A CHAMPION of East Lancashire small businesses today urged entrepreneurs to put their companies on the map by entering the Lancashire Telegraph Business Awards.

Aileen Evans, executive director of Hyndburn Enterprise Trust, said: “Despite the difficult times we live in, there are some great businesses in our region which are showing real potential.

“The Lancashire Telegraph awards have proved themselves over the years to be an excellent way of showcasing that talent and expertise.”

Download an entry form: LT Business Awards 2013 entry form.doc

Businesses of all shapes and sizes have a week left to get their entries in for the 2013 awards which promise to be the best yet.

There are 11 categories, including the prestigious Business of the Year title, and other awards recognising manufacturing excellence, innovation and technology, export achievement, deals, environment, training and development, retailing, team of the year, social and community and the small business of the year.

Award sponsors this year are Blackburn with Darwen Council, Burnley Council, Blackburn College, Accrington and Rossendale College, Accrol Papers, worldwide business experts Deloitte, Hyndburn Enterprise Trust and legal firm Napthens.

Three finalists in each category will be chosen by judges to go forward to the prestigious awards ceremony attended by more than 300 East Lancashire business leaders at Ewood Park, on November 15 and hosted by Lancashire entertainer Norman Prince.

Entry is free and businesses can enter as many categories as they like. Award applications must be submitted by August 29, either electronically or by post to Lancashire Telegraph Business Awards, Editorial, High Street, Blackburn BB1 1HT.