JUDGES for the Winchester Business Excellence Awards are looking for the best, creative organisations.

The Creative and Cultural Award sponsored by Winchester City Council, will be presented to a business that demonstrates commercial success, growth and achievement through culture and creativity shaping the way the business operates.

Cllr Lucille Thompson, cabinet member for business and culture at the city council, said: “There are a lot of really brilliant organisations in the district – the Winchester Business Excellence Awards are a reflection of that, and a fantastic chance to shine a spotlight on some of the best that the district has to offer.

“Creative and cultural businesses are a cornerstone of the district’s economy and it’s great to be able to recognise them and their contributions in this way.

“I’m delighted that Winchester City Council has been able to sponsor the Cultural and Creative category at this year’s awards.”

READ MORE: Winchester pub: Wellington Pub Company applies to re-open

Last year's winner was the charity Play to the Crowd, which operates the Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers. 

Organised by the Hampshire Chronicle, Winchester BID, and Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, these awards serve as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within the district.

The awards are sponsored by Paris Smith, Dutton Gregory, Winchester City Council, Winchester University, Winchester BID, Trethowans, Ridge & Partners and JM Finn. 

In addition, the awards receive valuable support from Natwest, Honey & Harvey, Little Kitchen, and Chesil House.

Each nomination received will undergo meticulous evaluation by a judging panel and may be visited by a mystery shopper. 

The names of the three finalists in each category will be unveiled on Thursday, May 2. The awards evening will be on Thursday, May 30. 

The awards categories are: business leader; charity and social enterprise; large business; SME/independent business; new business; technology and innovation; sustainable business; service excellence; and creative and cultural.

Businesses can submit their entries at winchesterbusinessawards.co.uk.

Winchester City Council will award the Millennium Egg to a business or individual who has made an impact on the area. 

Also, the Business of the Year award will be chosen from the category winners.

Nominations for this year's Winchester Business Excellence Awards are open until Thursday, April 18. 

The awards package includes a £500 multi-media advertising prize for each category winner, valid until December 31.

To enter, visit newsquestevents.co.uk/business-awards-2/.