Search is on for Lancashire's fastest-growing businesses

The Be Inspired Business Awards, The BIBAs, has opened for applications from firms of all sizes and sectors with categories including Growth Business of the Year.

It has also introduced new categories including Community Business of the Year and Innovative Business of the Year for this year’s awards.

Amin Vepari, of Two Zero, a programme run by Lancashire County Council to support companies aspiring for 20 per cent growth, said entering would help develop businesses.

Amin said: “The BIBAs puts a spotlight on the achievements of businesses and the people behind them right across Lancashire and gives them a great chance to shine.

“Since Two Zero was launched we have already seen many local firms with huge ambitions and inspirational stories to tell which make them perfect candidates for the Growth Business of the Year category.

“I would urge any business to use their application to The BIBAs as a rare opportunity to take a step back from the day-to-day running and look at what makes their business tick.

By doing this, they may spot something they can do better which could help them drive their growth potential.”

On Thursday The BIBAs is hosting a free Boot Camp workshop where it will offer businesses the chance to hear from former winners about the benefits of entering the awards.

It will offer advice on which of the awards’ 20 categories to enter, tips how to write a compelling application, and first-hand experiences from applicants and judges about how to succeed at the interview stage.

The Boot Camp takes place at the Marriott Hotel in Broughton, near Preston, from 10am-12.30pm.