Businesses are being urged to act now to enter Newcastle-under-Lyme’s premier business competition. 

Applications are now open for Business Boost, an exclusive competition open to companies located in Newcastle, Staffordshire. 

Business Boost offers cash prizes to help companies with up to 250 employees to flourish. 

Past winners have used the awards as a springboard for growth, giving a boost to the North Staffordshire economy. 

The main sponsors are Keele Science and Business Park, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, Staffordshire County Council, the Aspire Group and the North Staffs Chamber of Commerce and Industry with others supporting the completion with in kind help and prizes. 

The first stage of the entry process must be completed by July 21, 2013. Visit www.businessboostawards.org.uk to view the application procedure. 

There are three major categories: Impact on the Borough, Entrepreneurial Spirit and Customer Focus. Other awards include the Judges’ Special Award and an Apprentice Award, sponsored by the Aspire Realise Foundation, which will part fund two apprenticeships at two winning companies for a year.   

Best of British Beer won the Entrepreneurial Category in 2012.  Director, Will Sherwin said the prize money had been used to set up a Virtual Brewery project which was helping the business go from strength to strength. 

“Some businesses might think that entering competitions takes up too much valuable time but I believe it gives you the discipline needed to plan for the future,” said Will. 

“Since entering Business Boost our income has exceeded expectations. We have taken on two part time employees, moved to a bigger warehouse and started exporting beers around the world.” 

Businesses have to complete a detailed business plan and can benefit from free training to help.. 

Bernard Lovatt, Chair of the Business Boost panel, said: “Business Boost is unique to Newcastle-under-Lyme and provides a great platform for growing businesses. 

“Entrants get the opportunity to work with  business advisors and feedback shows that Business Boost can help in many ways. It helps small businesses to focus on producing a business plan that works, promotes links with other businesses in Newcastle-under-Lyme and progression to the final gives businesses a confidence boost and recognition.”  

The 2013 winners will be announced at an evening awards ceremony on October 10.

 ENDS 

For media enquiries contact Nigel Howle on 07762043436, email [email protected] 

Notes to Editors:

Last year’s winners were:

Impact on the Borough: Park Hill Farm. Second prize: McCamley Ltd.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Best of British Beer. Second prize: 24.I.S.

Customer Focus: JSW Insurance Services. Second prize: Brampton Recruitment.