WE'RE under starter's orders for the 2004 Evening Press Business of the Year Awards.

We launch the 14th annual awards in a bumper issue of the pink Business Press next Tuesday.

But there is no reason why hopeful businesses in the region can't get ready now for the off.

There will be 12 categories from which you can choose two in your bid for glory and a place at our glittering awards ceremony at the Voltigeur Suite in the Knavesmire Stand at York Racecourse on Thursday, November 18.

All that it will take will be up to 1,000 words about your amazing venture. Next Tuesday we will announce where you will be able to get hold of an entry form, plus details of a dedicated website on which you will be able to find an interactive entry form.

So why not start formulating those words now? The sooner you submit your copy after the starting gun next week, the quicker we will write a profile about your enterprise...

The longer the exposure you will have on our website which attracts up to 1.25 million page impressions per month and features your story until the start of next year's awards.

So what are the categories?

Small Business of the Year, Growth Business of the Year, Retailer of the Year, Best Use of New Technology, New Business of the Year, Best Environmental Company, Best Business and Education Link, Young Business Entrepreneur of the Year, Progress Through People, e-Commerce Business of the Year, Business Personality of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award.

Do any two of those whet your appetite?

Then on your marks, get set - and look out for next Tuesday's Business Press.

Updated: 11:34 Tuesday, May 25, 2004