The Ayrshire Business Awards are now OPEN!

Applications are now open for the 2023 Ayrshire Business Awards -sponsored by Business Gateway Ayrshire!

The Ayrshire Business Awards is established as the leading awards ceremony for Ayrshire business and is a highlight of the business calendar.

The Awards offer Ayrshire businesses the opportunity to promote major achievements and celebrate success.

This year’s categories:

l Active Travel at Work Award l Apprentice of the Year Award l Ayrshire's Growth Business of the Year Award (0-10 employees) l Ayrshire's Growth Business of the Year Award (11-50 employees) l Ayrshire's Growth Business of the Year Award (51 employees or more)

Recognising businesses that have encouraged their staff to be more active and change their travel habits resulting in a healthier workforce.

Open to any business in Ayrshire, irrespective of size, that has recruited, or is training, an Apprentice.

For businesses that operate with up to 10 employees, including sole traders.

For businesses that have successfully grown their organisation and now operate with 11-50 employees (or full time equivalent).

For businesses that have successfully grown their organisation and now operate with more than 51 employees (or full time equivalent).

Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce CEO, Claire Baird comments:

“It is fantastic to launch another stellar Ayrshire Business Awards, celebrating all that Ayrshire has to offer.

We are thrilled to announce 16 prestigious award categories, from that showcase the many varied and diverse organisations within Ayrshire.

“No matter how long your business has been running, or its size and sector, the Ayrshire Business Awards are for everyone.” l Charity of the Year Award l Community Champion Award l Community Wealth Building Award l Developing Ayrshire's Young Workforce Award l Driving Sustainability l Entrep reneur of the Year Award l Going Global - International Trade Business of the Year l Start-up Business of the Year Award l Tourism Award l Workplace Health and Wellbeing Award l Hospitality Business of the Year Award

Open to registered charities that are making a difference to people living, working or studying in the area, to the environment, or otherwise address local social needs.

Recognising organisations that seek to enhance the social or environmental opportunities for the people who live in the local communities in which the organisation operates.

For organisations that can demonstrate a people centred approach to economic development through the development of organisational policies and practices.

Open to organisations which have developed a partnership that prepares young people for the world of work.

Recognition of a business which is passionate about environmental sustainability and is driving positive change for people and the planet.

Recognising an outstanding individual who demonstrates incomparable vision and leadership qualities within a pioneering business.

Open to companies that demonstrate significant international growth proving borders are not a barrier to trade.

Open to businesses in early stages showing entrepreneurship and innovation, with a determination to succeed.

Open to any organisation, irrespective of size, involved in the tourism, leisure, visitor attractions or hospitality sectors in Ayrshire.

Designed for organisations who can demonstrate a commitment to improving their staff's health and wellbeing.

Celebrating the diverse range of food and drink products grown, produced, manufactured and promoted in Ayrshire, as well as industry-related services.

The winners will all be announced at the Business Awards Dinner taking place at Ayr Racecourse on Friday 6th October. The Awards Dinner coincides with the end of the Ayrshire Business Week, which includes a programme of fantastic events running from 2nd to 6th October. Full BW23 programme launching soon!

To view all category criteria and apply, please visit www.bit.ly/ABA23Apply