ENTRIES are now open for the 20th annual Somerset Business Awards with judges, sponsors and local businesses helping to officially launch the awards at a reception held at The Mount Somerset, near Taunton.

This year is a milestone for the awards which have honoured hundreds of businesses since its launch 20 years ago by Somerset Chamber of Commerce.

Local accountancy firm Albert Goodman has been the main sponsor for 15 of those years and is continuing that support for the 2025 awards.

Mike Cahill, a partner at Albert Goodman, said: “The Somerset Business Awards offer a fantastic platform to showcase what makes your business truly exceptional.

“As the proud main sponsor for the fifteenth consecutive year, we’ve seen first-hand how businesses have thrived after entering, gaining well-deserved recognition and reaching new heights.

“These awards celebrate the very best that Somerset has to offer and entering provides a valuable opportunity to raise your profile, motivate your team and drive your business forward.”

The awards are the county’s biggest and most prestigious annual business awards and are organised by Somerset Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the very best of the county’s businesses.

They are free to enter, and businesses do not need to be a member of the Chamber to take part.

David Crew, Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said: “Taking part is a great way to raise your profile, engage your staff and celebrate your achievements.

“There are 14 categories which cover all sectors and sizes of businesses and charities and we know past winners have gained new business as a direct result of the publicity they received as an award-winner.

“The awards are a great way to share success stories and I am grateful for the sponsorship and support of so many of Somerset’s leading businesses.”

Awards this year are:

• Small Business of the Year sponsored Gather Technology Ltd

• Medium Business of the Year sponsored by Higos Insurance Services

• Large Business of the Year sponsored by Netitude

• Albert Goodman Family Business of the Year Award

• Best Use of Digital Technology Award

• Charity of the Year Award sponsored by Clarke Willmott

• Employer of the Year sponsored by HR Dept

• Investing in Somerset Award sponsored by Hinkley Point C

• Start-up of the Year Award sponsored by Westcotts

• Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by University Centre Weston

• Environmental and Sustainability Award sponsored by Agratas

• Service Excellence Award sponsored by Porter Dodson

• Somerset Manufacturing and Engineering Award sponsored by Leonardo UK

• Business Resilience and Growth Award sponsored by Barclays SME

The awards are also supported by media partners Global and the Somerset County Gazette series.

Businesses have until midday on November 22 to submit their entries via the Somerset Business Awards website at www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk.