THE SEARCH is on for the county's e-commerce champions.

SEEDA, the South East England Development Agency, is sponsoring the fifth annual UK online for business/InterForum E-Commerce Awards.

The awards, which in the past have gone to several Kent firms, reward innovation in Internet use, information and communications technologies (ICT) to transform businesses with up to 250 employees.

The awards consist of regional heats. Regional winners of each category -- e-business start-ups, e-trading, e-business and voluntary/community sector -- will receive £2,000, and national winners £8,000. The national champion nets £30,000.

To celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Government-backed technology awards, four new national innovation categories have been introduced -- use of mobile and wireless technology, use of broadband technology, advanced supply chain integration, and use of Technology Means Business (TMB) accredited advice.

SEEDA broadband manager Steve Coppins said: "SEEDA is delighted to be involved in the E-Commerce awards. These awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate ICT innovation and success right across the South East.

"We would really encourage all local organisations using new technologies to improve organisational processes to enter these awards."

The deadline for entries is July 31. Details on www.ecommerce-awards.co.uk