Efforts will soon be underway to pinpoint the county’s outstanding business performers, with the launch of the 2016 Monmouthshire Business Awards (MBAs) on Thursday May 12 at Usk’s Glen-yr-Afon Hotel.

Dubbed the ‘Oscars’ of the Welsh business community, the MBAs are supported by Monmouthshire County Council and celebrate local business excellence across all industries.

The awards are free to enter and open to businesses of all sizes that demonstrate innovation, talent and enterprise. Previous winners have included a mix of start-ups and sole traders, in addition to some of the county’s largest and most influential organisations.

The event is an opportunity for local businesses to network and to meet guests including senior members of MCC, category sponsors and Welsh Government representatives.

Tickets are free but must be booked in advance by emailing [email protected]

Awards founder Janet Harris urged local businesses – especially those new to the awards – to claim their place at the launch event.

“At least one category is applicable to every business in the county, and we hope that businesses large and small will take this chance to join us at the launch and enter this year’s awards,” she said.

Since their launch in 2012, the MBAs have attracted nearly 1,000 entries producing nearly 200 finalists and 50 winners.

This year’s awards feature 13 categories: Company Demonstrating Sustained Growth; Excellence in Marketing; Innovation in Business; Young Entrepreneur; Socially Responsible Business; Hospitality, Travel and Tourism; Excellence in Technology Innovation; Excellence in E-commerce; Most Promising Start-Up; Community Life; Best Small Business; Apprentice of the Year and Company of the Year.

Paul Matthews, MCC’s Chief Executive, said, “The awards are an invaluable chance for people to raise the profile of their organisation, to attract new customers, and to enhance their reputations.

For details about how to enter the awards visit monbizawards.co.uk