Excellence in business is to be rewarded in an exciting new competition that aims to find Kent's very own "Dragons."

The Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA), launched by Kent County Council and the Kent Messenger Group, will recognise and reward exceptional activity at every level - from apprentices to bosses in the boardroom. Awards will be given for businesses of all sizes, and from sectors unique to the Kent economy.

The judges will be looking for candidates who go the extra mile for their business.

There will be a range of 17 categories for companies of all sizes as well as individual awards. Firms will be able to compete for the title of Kent's business champion, employer of the year, large, small or medium business, most promising start-up or new business, and best charity or social enterprise.

Special awards will be given for quintessentially Kentish companies. Their expertise must be in the fields of social care, leisure and tourism, creative industries, science and technology, and land-based business.

Individual awards will be for an outstanding lifetime contribution, the entrepreneur of the year, the young business person and an apprentice of the year, endorsed by their college.

KCC Cabinet Member for Regeneration Kevin Lynes said:"As an excellent-rated authority, KCC sets very high standards for its services. During this time of economic difficulties, it is extremely important that we support Kent businesses. These new awards are an opportunity to recognise and reward the companies and business people who are doing their very best for Kent and their businesses."

KEiBA are also backed by Business Link and a number of big-name sponsors are poised to give their support. Head of marketing Tony Buddin said: "Business Link is supporting the Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA) a new award scheme for business which is being staged and produced by Kent County Council and the KM Group."

He added: "To celebrate excellence is a great advertisement for Kent business and will provide superb publicity for the best in Kent."

Both winners and finalists will benefit from considerable PR and this can only be good for the county’s economy"

Graham Webb, the Sevenoaks-based international haircare magnate, is to chair the judging panel for the new awards which will be presented at a glittering gala dinner at Leeds Castle on July 2.

Entries must be completed by March 2009. Full information about entering the awards will be published online later this month.

More details about sponsorship and entering the awards should email Morag Welham at mwelham@thekmgroup.co.uk