For the first time the city region's outstanding business person will be recognised at the high-profile awards - sponsored by BiG and the Environment Agency - which attract an audience of more than 1,000 drawn from all sectors of the Sheffield business community.

Achievers between 16 and 30 years old will now have their chance to shine as well. The Young Business Person of the Year Award has been introduced to recognise the growing impact of young entrepreneurs.

A number of other categories have been changed, as the awards keep pace with the city's changing commercial scene.

Once again the awards, at the Ponds Forge International Centre on December 4, are backed by Star Business Monthly, which will regularly report on the countdown to the glittering event.

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce chief executive Nigel Tomlinson said: "The awards recognise and reward Sheffield city region business success – where there are ever more examples contributing to Sheffield being a leading, creative force for business.

"The event is well and truly established as a showcase of all that is best in enterprise. The awards are part of the Chamber's ongoing commitment to supporting businesses, whatever their size.

"I am delighted that an award to honour the city's outstanding business person has been introduced. There will be many contenders who will be considered for their remarkable contributions," added Mr Tomlinson.

BiG - Make it Your Business, one of the two sponsors - is boosting enterprise in Sheffield by helping people set up in business, support sustainable business growth and increase the success rate of locally-owned businesses in Sheffield.

The BiG - Make it Your Business programme is made up of support activities including:

Support with taking the first steps towards setting up a new business.

Help identifying a viable business idea; support with drawing up your business plan.

Assistance with marketing, branding and website development.

Access to funding and help finding cost effective and flexible premises.

Specialist support, including support with sales and developing your business online.

Mentoring programme for schools and colleges and budding entrepreneurs.

Kevin Bennett, director of BiG - Make it Your Business says: "BiG - Make it Your Business is delighted to be involved with the Sheffield Business Awards. Our programme works to boost enterprise across Sheffield and the Sheffield Business Awards will showcase the best of the city's business talent. "

The second sponsor, the Environment Agency, is the biggest organisation protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales.

Agency regional director Toby Willison said: "We are delighted to be associated with the Sheffield Chamber's Business Awards because looking after the environment is a shared responsibility.


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