Enterprising entrepreneurs and inspirational business-owners are being urged to enter a competition recognising the best companies in the county.

For the past eight years the High Sheriff’s Awards have celebrated the most outstanding, innovative and successful businesses across Cheshire and Warrington.

Now, as entries open for the 2014 award nominations, Professor Phil Harris, dean of the faculty of business, enterprise and learning at the University of Chester, has urged businesses big and small to enter.

He said: “A lot has been said about the way businesses have been struggling and about how Britain doesn’t have enough small independent businesses, but in Cheshire we have a lot of family businesses which are thriving.

“This is a celebration of some of the best businesses we have, from the smallest family companies to large businesses.”

And with more than £17,000 worth of prizes up for grabs for the winning entrepreneurs and teams, alongside regional exposure for all finalists during a co-ordinated PR campaign, Professor Harris said the awards would help to shine a spotlight on some of the most outstanding companies in Cheshire.

He said: “We are growing and driving new businesses, and driving new talent in the county. It is encouraging for the economy of the region to have such talent and hard work driving business in Cheshire forward.”

Founded in 2006 by former High Sheriff of Cheshire and now Lord Lieutenant for Cheshire, David Briggs MBE, the Awards for Enterprise are judged on the categories of innovation, corporate social responsibility and enterprise.

There are also separate categories for the most outstanding Cheshire and Warrington business leader and the young entrepreneur of the year – entrants to this award must be 30 years or less.

The top prize – won at the 2013 awards by electrical engineering company B&S Group Ltd of Chester – will see one employee gain a sought-after place on the Business School’s MBA, worth £10,000.

Guest speaker at the 2014 award ceremony, to be held at the University of Chester on March 27, will be chairman of regeneration company Urban Splash Ltd, Tom Bloxham MBE.

Entrance for the 2014 High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise runs until 5pm on Friday, January 3, 2014. Entrants must have an annual turnover of at least £500,000 and employ between 5-250 members of staff.

To enter, visit www.chester.ac.uk/highsheriff-enterprise and fill in the online form.