TOP performing companies in Kent are being urged to apply now for The Queen's Awards for Enterprise 2005. They have received information as part of a nationwide campaign to promote the Awards scheme, which recognises and rewards exceptional achievements and advances in all areas of business.

Stephen Brice, acting Queen's Awards secretary, said: "Over the years Kent has produced many worthy winners - this year they included Checkmate UK Ltd, Viewframe Pictures Plc, and Sericol Ltd. But we know there are many more talented firms out there and we want them to come forward to receive the recognition they deserve.

"Any firm of merit can enter - and size is irrelevant. There's a misconception that only big companies win Queen's Awards, but nearly a half of the 2004 winners have fewer than 50 employees and a score have fewer than 10.

"Any type of business unit can apply for a Queen's Award in one or more of three categories: International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development. Minimum requirements are that entrants employ at least two people, are UK-based and are high achievers in their field.

Winning companies are entitled to display The Queen's Award emblem for five years. They benefit from the publicity surrounding the announcement of the winners on the Queen's birthday (April 21), and enjoy further publicity when Lord Lieutenants visit company premises to present the Awards. The Queen also invites three members of each winning company to a special reception at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Brice added: "Even unsuccessful applicants benefit by receiving feedback detailing the strengths and weaknesses of their application, to help them to become Queen's Awards winners of the future."

The deadline for this year's awards is October 31.