This year’s The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards, sponsored by Business Gateway, will take place on Wednesday, 8 December and there is still time for family-run businesses across Scotland to make it onto the shortlist.

Entries close on Monday, 18 October and despite already receiving an impressive number of applications, the organisers are keen to hear from every single organisation, large or small, that is making its mark on Scotland’s business landscape.

From local companies to those with an international profile, if they are family run then they are eligible to enter into one of the12 categories that include Fastest Growing Family Business Award, Business Innovation Award and the Recognition Award, which will acknowledge the contribution made by one member of staff.

For sponsors such as Business Gateway, anticipation is growing that this year’s cohort will include outstanding examples of ambition, innovation and resilience, especially when set again the events of the last 18 months.

Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer, Business Gateway National Unit, is already impressed by the show of strength that family businesses have demonstrated, and he believes that it is time to recognise achievements and mark impressive gains.

He says: “The awards offer a welcome opportunity to take stock and celebrate these efforts across the Scottish business community.”

Scotland’s countryside is home to many family businesses and specialist consultants, Family Business Solutions Ltd, who have long involvement in this sector, are sponsors of this year’s Rural Family Business Award. Billy Andrew, Consultant at Family Business Solutions Ltd, says: “Current times and conditions continue to highlight the importance and potential of family business. We look forward to The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2021 as it puts the spotlight on key examples and stories”.

If there are any companies that, despite their track record and achievements, doubt that they’ve got what it takes to join the line-up at this year’s awards ceremony, then Graham Cunning, Corporate Finance Partner at Azets encourages them to go ahead and enter as they may be surprised by how successful they have actually been.

Azets are specialist local accountants and business advisors who are supporting the Scottish Family Business of the Year (large) award and Graham says: “This year, in particular, following a tough and often uncertain 18 months, family business leaders should be recognised for their determination and ambition.

“The Herald Family Business Awards in December will mark a moment to both celebrate and pay tribute to Scottish family businesses, and what they mean to Scotland and the economy.”

Also supporting this year’s awards is University of Strathclyde Business School which is sponsoring the ‘Outstanding Contribution’ a category that will recognise a team or individual that has made a significant contribution to a Scottish headquartered business.

Through the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship, the Business School both researches family businesses in order to shape economic policy while its Growth Advantage Programme is designed to support business as they grow.

A spokesperson for the Business School said: “Our recently launched Centre for Board & Director Development will provide a focal point for the development of directors and future leaders and is developing specific programmes for the boards and leaders of family businesses in partnership with the Institute of Directors and leading family business practitioners.”

The Business School is hopeful that some outstanding future leaders will emerge from this year’s awards and for candidates in this and all other categories there is still time to make that all important submission.

The Herald Family Business Awards in association with Business Gateway will take place on Wednesday, 8 December.For full details on how to enter visit:https://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/familybusiness/