Less than one week to go to Enterprise Awards deadline

There is less than one week remaining for entries into the 2009 Jersey Enterprise Awards.

The Awards, which are in their eighth year, are designed to recognise the achievements of local businesses, excellence in management and the contribution individuals and organisations make to the island. This year two further awards have been added to enable organisations and individuals to showcase their environmental credentials and management skills.

The closing date for entries for the business award categories*, including the NatWest Small Business Award, the Altis Medium Business Award, the Play.com Large Business Award, the Indigo Lighthouse Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the BPP Professional Education Manager of the Year Award, is Thursday 26th November at 5.00pm.

Changes to the 2009 Awards see Altis Partners sponsoring the Medium Business Category and BPP Professional Education supporting a new ‘Manager of the Year’ Award. Reflecting the ever-increasing interest in the green-agenda, a new Environmental Award has also been introduced, sponsored by the Jersey Electricity Company. New sponsor, Condor Ferries, is supporting the Community Award.

Senator Alan Maclean, Minister for Economic Development said: “I am delighted with the tremendous response we have had to the Awards again this year, but would like to remind potential entrants that there is still time to get submissions in. In this more challenging economic climate, entering the Awards offers a great opportunity for local businesses to increase their profile and be recognised for their performance.”

Sean Pritchard from Jersey Enterprise added: “The introduction of two new categories has certainly boosted the level of interest in the Awards and the quality of the entries received so far is excellent. If any businesses or not for profit organisations would still like to enter but they are not sure how to go about it, I would urge them to contact Jersey Enterprise (Tel: 448140) and our business advisors would be delighted to help.”

The gala night at which the Awards will be presented is planned for Friday 26th February 2010 and will be staged in the Queens Hall, Fort Regent. Bookings are now being taken and guests on the night will be able to enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif thanks to the generosity of Rothschild.

The business support team at Jersey Enterprise are available to advise organisations and individuals on which category to enter and to help with the entry process.