Every year around 350 organisations compete in the national rounds of the competition, with over 50 initiatives selected for the European level.

Nearly 2.000 projects have entered since the awards were launched and together they have supported the creation of over 10.000 new companies and more than 70.000 new jobs, as well as the safeguarding of over 30.000 jobs.

The objectives of the Awards are to:

• identify and recognise successful activities and initiatives undertaken to promote enterprise and entrepreneurship;
• showcase and share examples of best entrepreneurship policies and practices;
• create a greater awareness of the role entrepreneurs play in society;
• encourage and inspire potential entrepreneurs.

There are five categories in the Awards programme:

• Promoting the Entrepreneurial Spirit;
• Investing in Skills;
• Improving the Business Environment;
• Supporting the Internationalisation of Business;
• Responsible and Inclusive Entrepreneurship.

The competition comprises of two stages: Entrants first have to compete at national level. Each country will select two entries to be nominated to the European competition by July 16, 2012. To find out more about the competition and national deadlines please contact your national SPOC.

Further details on the awards are available here: ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/sme/best-practices/european-enterprise-awards/index_en.htm

For further information on the participation process please go to: ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/sme/best-practices/european-enterprise-awards/participate/index_en.htm

Source: European Commission