Time is running out for a treble chance of scooping a top business award.

Firms are being urged to show that it's not all doom and gloom by entering the prestigious Business Awards '09 run by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.

Entries are due to be in by Friday but organisers have granted an extension of a few days.

The awards are open to all Kent Invicta Chamber members and any business in the area covered by the chamber - Ashford, Canterbury, Maidstone and West Kent.

Entry to the Kent Invicta Awards automatically enters a business into the Kent County Council/Kent Messenger Group Kent Excellence in Business Awards and The British Chambers of Commerce National Awards.

So a single entry means three chances of winning.

Organisers say that in the economic downturn, it is more important than ever for a business to promote its services or products, and that the awards offer a superb chance of promoting a company's name throughout Kent and beyond.

The annual Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards, introduced in 2006 to celebrate business excellence in Kent, have become one of the most prestigious business awards in the region.

The awards are in four categories: Business of the Year, sponsored by The University of Kent; Excellence in Customer Service, sponsored by Brachers Law; Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by Canterbury Enterprise Hub; Most Promising New Business, sponsored by HSBC.

Apart from the possibility of winning an engraved glass trophy and cash prize, entering the awards give firms an invaluable chance to show clients, customers and competitors how successful you are; offer media coverage, PR and marketing opportunities, as well as recognition across the county. It also boosts staff morale and can simulate further employment.

Chamber chief executive Jo James said: "There is a wealth of business excellence in Kent, and we should all shout about it.

"The Chamber knows how hard businesses work to provide quality services and products, and we want other people - your customers, suppliers and trading partners - to know about it as well. Get the recognition you deserve by entering your business."

Winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner to be held on March 25 in Canterbury Cathedral Lodge.

Application forms from Maxine on 01233 503838, email maxine@kentinvictachamber.co.uk, or visit the website >>>