The Queens' Awards for Enterprise 2008 is now open for entries from UK-based businesses wanting to be recognised for international trade, innovation or sustainable development.
"The Queen's Awards are all about celebrating the best examples of British-based businesses, large and small, from every sector," said Stephen Brice, secretary to The Queen's Awards Office. "They also bring substantial benefits to winners in terms of reputation and recognition."
According to the organisers, 70 per cent of last year's winners said that winning a Queen's Award had brought their company added commercial value. Firms can use the Queen's Award emblem for five years.
Over 600 companies have won these awards during the last five years. "But I'm convinced there are many more worthy firms out there who stand a good chance of winning this prestigious corporate accolade," said Brice.
Nominations of individuals are also being sought for the Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion. This award is aimed at recognising individuals who have played "an outstanding and significant role in promoting the growth of enterprise or entrepreneurial skills and attitudes in others".
The deadline for entries is midnight on 31 October 2007.