A NEW category will be introduced as part of this year’s Working4Business Awards.

The awards celebrate businesses across West Dunbartonshire that deserve recognition for going the extra mile.

Working4Business is a partnership of public sector organisations that have joined together to provide a one-stop coordinated service for businesses in the area.

The awards are open to businesses of all sizes, in all sectors operating in West Dunbartonshire.

It is free to apply and companies can apply for up to three of the categories.

This year, in addition to the nine categories previously on offer, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce has unveiled a new award as part of a new “Partner+” programme with Ascensos, a leading multi-channel contact centre outsourcer, operating in Clydebank Business Park.

The Chamber Business of the Year award is open to Dunbartonshire chamber member businesses based locally and will recognise companies with a dynamic and proactive approach to business that can demonstrate all-round business excellence.

This is an independent award organised by Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce and the winner will be chosen by a distinguished panel of judges comprised of chamber directors and business experts.

Damon Scott, chief executive, said: “This broad-ranging category will be awarded to a chamber member business that can demonstrate effectiveness in business characterised by a clear vision for the future, innovation and the development of new markets. 

“Entrants will also have a keen focus on staff development and will score more highly if they can demonstrate a positive contribution to the community (including the business community) and the economy of West Dunbartonshire.

“The award forms part of our new ‘Partner+’ programme that has been designed to help us work more closely with businesses to help them meet their corporate objectives and we are delighted that Ascensos recently signed up as a ‘Partner+’ to help us create this new award.”

Alan Whisker, director of client operations, said: “Ascensos is delighted to be supporting the Chamber’s Business of the Year Award, as part of our Partner+ membership. 

“We love to see excellence in business, people development, innovation and putting something back into the community; these are cornerstones of Ascensos too. 

“We have developed an excellent relationship with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce over the last two years and Partner+ is an ideal way for us to build upon this relationship.” 

All finalists will be featured in the media and the winners will be announced at an awards dinner at Clydebank Town Hall on Friday, April 27.

For more information on the awards and the categories visit working4business.com. Businesses have until 5pm on March 9 to submit their completed applications.

Chamber members who wish to be considered for the Business of the Year award should email: awards@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or those wishing to enquire about membership should email admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk.