The Daily Echo backed Dorset Business Business Awards 2010 have been launched at Kingston Country Courtyard, near Corfe Castle.

This year’s event was attended by 130 business guests.

The awards, which have been running for 16 years, are organised by Dorset Business (the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and also supported by Wave 105, the south coast radio station.

All businesses, regardless of their size or business sector, with a BH/DT postcode, or who are based in Dorset, are invited to enter the awards.

There are 10 award categories: l Best Employer for a Healthy Workplace Award, sponsored by Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital – NEW l Business Engagement in the Community Award, sponsored by Morgan Sindall – NEW l Creative Company/Project of the Year Award, sponsored by The Arts University College at Bournemouth and Liz Lean PR l Dorset Exporter of the Year Award, sponsored by UK Trade and Investment l Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Bournemouth University l Innovative Technology Award, sponsored by Dorset Business (Chamber of Commerce & Industry) and P H Warr plc - NEW l KPMG Company of the Year Award l Linking with Schools Award, sponsored by the Borough of Poole and Bournemouth Borough Council l NatWest Excellence in Customer Service Award l Princecroft Willis Family Business Award Peter Scott, chief executive of Dorset Business, said: “The Dorset Business Awards provide an opportunity for the county’s businesses to endorse their brand and gain recognition for their continued hard work and unwavering determination to persevere, particularly during the difficult economic climate.

“The awards afford the opportunity to give much deserved credit and recognition to those that fly the flag for Dorset in their respective industries.” Entry into this year’s awards will be open from Monday until Friday, September 17.

Applications can be made at www.dorsetbusinessawards.co .uk or an entry form from the website can be printed off and submitted.

Judging takes place in October when three finalists will be chosen per category. Winners will be announced at the gala dinner, which takes place at the Lighthouse Poole on Thursday, December 9. For further information about the awards or to purchase tickets for the gala dinner, contact Shirley Ewart on 01202-714812. Book by October 1 and save £150 on a table of 10. Tickets cost £75+VAT each or £700+VAT for a table of 10 for Dorset Business members, while non-Dorset Business members are charged £85+VAT each or £800+VAT for a table of 10.

• See related links to follow the awards on Facebook and Twitter.