THE search is on to find inspiring businesses that illustrate the wealth of talent and enterprise in East Renfrewshire.

It comes with the launch of the 2017 East Renfrewshire Business Awards - and the race is on for companies to win one of the category titles.

The application process is now open and businesses of all sizes, in all sectors, operating in East Renfrewshire can take part.

The range of award has been designed to be fully accessible to all businesses.

It is free to apply and companies can enter up to three categories out of eight.

The awards, which are hosted by East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, attract high-profile industry support and this year is no different, with the Barrhead News being a media partner.

Taylor Wimpey Homes is the principal sponsor for this year’s event.

Audrey Ross, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey West Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to continue our support of the East Renfrewshire Business Awards as this year’s principal sponsor and as sponsor of the Developing East Renfrewshire’s Young Person’s Workforce Award.

“We are fully committed to delivering new homes to both Maidenhill, in Newton Mearns, and Neilston, so it’s an exciting time for our business in the East Renfrewshire area and a great opportunity to strengthen our links with these prestigious regional business awards.”

Award categories for 2017 are: Developing East Renfrewshire’s Young Workforce Award, sponsored by Taylor Wimpey; Community Impact Award, sponsored by East Renfrewshire Council; Family Business Award, sponsored by CALA Homes; Excellence in Customer Service Award, sponsored by the Avenue Shopping Centre; Most Promising New Business Award, sponsored by Barrhead Travel; Excellence in Innovation Award, sponsored by George Leslie Ltd; East Renfrewshire’s Best Business Award (10 employees or less), sponsored by Business Gateway; and East Renfrewshire’s Best Business Award (11 employees or more), sponsored by Miller Homes.

John F Hamilton, president of East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The awards are now in their sixth year and have become a highlight of the business calendar. We are thrilled that they are continuing to grow year on year and highlight the success of our exciting companies.

“I’d like to thank all our sponsors for their support. Without them, we could not run the awards and we’re delighted to see such high profile industry support and enthusiasm for the awards each year.”

For more information or to request an application form, click here.

The deadline for entries is 5pm on April 21.

All finalists will be featured in the Barrhead News and the winners will be announced at a glittering awards dinner at the Busby Hotel on June 8.