Companies should take the chance to win new business and gain the confidence of suppliers by entering Kent’s most prestigious business awards.

The profile boost from entering KEiBA 2017 gives firms more chance of “raising finance in the future” according to Darren Rigden, a partner at sponsor Crowe Clark Whitehill.

The Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells-based accountancy firm is supporting the exporter of the year category.

Mr Rigden said the award’s winner would be able to “grow their business in these interesting times”.

KEiBA 2017 – short for the Kent Excellence in Business Awards – is open for entries until Friday, February 24, with the awards presented at a gala evening in June.

Mr Rigden said: “By entering the awards you will have access to this valuable network of contacts which will allow you to discuss the issues facing your business with like-minded and knowledgeable people.

“You may find new suppliers and customers and identify new ways of achieving your business goals.

“Above all being part of the KEiBAs, with such a well-known and highly valued brand, really raises the profile of your business.

“This is valuable in attracting new business, securing the confidence of suppliers and increasing the profile of the business for raising finance in the future.

“This year the exporter of the year category is very topical following the referendum last year which has seen a significant increase in interest in export businesses.”

To find out more about KEiBA 2017, visit keiba.co.uk