ENTRIES for a prestigious awards ceremony celebrating the best of business across north Hampshire have opened.

The Inspire Awards celebrate companies of all shapes and sizes who have made a difference.

The awards have been organised by Destination Basingstoke and are funded entirely from sponsorship including headline sponsorship from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Cllr Simon Bound, leader of the council, said: “Supporting our economy is a key part of the council’s vision for the future, enabling the borough to be a place where residents can learn, work and build a successful career. We want our small businesses to be able to grow, and large businesses to thrive. The Inspire awards are a great way to showcase innovative and exciting businesses from across the region.”

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There are 12 categories to choose from. See a full list of categories bellow.

  • Business of the Year (sponsored by Absolutely Offices)
  • Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Menzies)
  • Small Business of the Year (Sponsored by Available for sponsorship)
  • Employer of the Year (Sponsored by Reality HR)
  • Environmental Responsibility Award (Sponsored Vitacress)
  • Wellbeing at Work Award (Sponsored by Festival Place)
  • Innovation for Growth Award (Sponsored by RSM)
  • Business & Community (Sponsored by Face TV)
  • Young Business Person of the Year (Sponsored by Minuteman)
  • New Business of the Year (Trust Mark­)
  • Service Excellence Award (Morrisons)Diversity and Inclusion Champion (Sovereign)

John Biffen, partner at Menzies and chair of the Inspire steering group, added: “The Inspire Business Awards are funded by businesses that understand the value of celebrating and recognising achievements – even more important in today’s unpredictable economic climate.’ said John Biffen Partner at Menzies and chair of the Inspire steering group.”

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Entry is free to business of any size or type that is based in Basingstoke and Deane, Rushmoor, Hart, or Test Valley local authority areas.

The closing date is October 31 with the awards evening to be held in February 2023.

For more information visit: inspirebusinessawards.co.uk.

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