Time is fast running out for a chance for young growing businesses to win a slice of £15m of free advertising and expert mentoring.

Today is the deadline for entries to the second Local Business Accelerators scheme promoted by the Newspaper Society and backed by the KM Group.

Dozens of entries from businesses across the county have already been received, as well as more than a thousand nationally, but there is still time for a last minute bid for glory.

The contest, now in its second year, offers free advertising in KM Group titles or online and free mentoring from Reeves, the long-established Kent-based accounting and business advisory firm.

The county winner stands a chance of progressing to the regional and national finals, with a chance of more mentoring from Daragons' Den panellist Deborah Meaden.

The scheme is backed by the Prime Minister David Cameron (pictured above) and leading business organisations.

Geraldine Allinson, KM Group chairman, said: "Last year, we saw some inspiring entries from businesses across the county, many with great potential for growth.

"The KM Group provided free advertising to the finalists and winner worth thousands of pounds and I'm looking forward to doing the same this year. I encourage businesses to enter."

Dan Clay, founder of last year's Kent winner Ebox Media, based in Cranbrook, said: "We have seen increased sales from Kent Online and the KM Group. It was fabulous exposure and I would recommend anybody to enter."

• Entries from businesses aged between one and five years old are welcome via the LBA hub at www.accelerateme.co.uk