Bizstartup.ie - NewsEmerging businesses can enter SFA awards

The Emerging New Business section gives young businesses an opportunity to have their company assessed by a panel of experts well versed in the needs of small business. The best five companies identified will be showcased at the final awards ceremony.

Now in their  seventh year the SFA National Small Business Awards recognise achievement, innovation and excellence in small business. Commenting at the launch An Taoiseach Brian Cowen TD said: "These awards acknowledge the important role small businesses have to play in leading our return to economic growth and job creation.”

SFA Director, Avine McNally said: “Participating companies have the opportunity of competing to become 'The Best Small Business in Ireland' and to publicly acknowledge the major contribution which their staff makes to their company’s success. Hopefully such examples will encourage more individuals around the country to set up their own businesses and to provide much needed employment in these difficult times.”

Benefits and prizes

All participants in the awards programme will benefit from an extensive SFA media and PR programme both regionally and nationally. Finalists will receive a prize package that will include a full day Presentation/Media Skills training programme which will prepare them for an opportunity to feature on Newstalk 106. The prize package also includes a Weekend Residential Strategic Management Masterclass and profile in a specially commissioned Irish Independent supplement.

The award categories are: Manufacturing; Food and Drink; Services; Outstanding Small Business; Innovator; and Environmental Sustainability.

Entry categories allow for those companies with less than five employees to compete with companies employing up to 50 people.

Entries to the awards are now being accepted until 29 October here. at www.sfa.ie/awards.

Photo: An Taoiseach Brian Cowen TD