ACT NOW TO WIN AN ‘OSCAR FOR ENTERPRISE’

ENTERPRISING and innovative broadcast, production and multimedia companies of all sizes are being urged to apply now for the 2002 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, the UK’s highest accolade for outstanding business success.
The 2002 round of the UK’s own annual ‘Oscars for Enterprise’ was officially launched this week. The scheme recognises and rewards exceptional achievements and advances in all areas of British business.
Film, photographic and broadcasting winners in the latest Queen’s Awards, announced on April 21, included Celador (makers of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?), Cooke Optics Ltd, Digital Vision Ltd, ISG Thermal Systems Ltd, Kodak Ltd and Vicon Motion Systems Ltd (whose technology has been used in blockbusters including Titanic and Gladiator). Organisers are hoping their success will spur on more businesses from these sectors to investigate and enter the 2002 Awards.
David Moore, head of The Queen’s Awards Office said: “We know there are a lot of talented firms out there, and we want them to come forward and receive the recognition they deserve.
“Companies from the visual communications sectors have done particularly well in this year's Awards – let’s build on that success for next year and showcase the UK’s world-beating talent in these areas.”
Any type of business unit can apply for a Queen’s Award in one or more of three categories: International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development. The minimum requirements are that entrants employ at least two people, be based in the UK and be high achievers in their field. There is no limit to the number of Awards that can be made in any year, though the standard required to win is high.
The right to use the coveted Queens Awards Emblem for five years is one of the direct benefits enjoyed by winners. The prestige of being associated with the Queen’s Awards also provides them with a valuable promotional and marketing tool in an increasingly competitive domestic and global economy. Even entrants who do not win receive a feedback report detailing the strengths and weaknesses of their application, helping them plan for future Award entries.
The deadline for next year’s Awards is 31 October 2001. Would-be winners should phone 0870 5 13 44 86 or visit www.queensawards.org.uk for an entry pack.
(GB)