THE second North West ethnic minority business awards have been launched by the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

The awards, which aim to inspire and encourage more members of the ethnic community to start-up or expand their businesses in the North West, will culminate in a ceremony at Manchester United on 9 March.

Awards up for grabs this year includeare the rising star award, young entrepreneur of the year, achievement in international business, social enterprise of the year, entrepreneur of the year and North West business of the year. 

The 2009 event will be a unique interactive experience with guests able to select winners from a shortlist of nominations, via an interactive audience polling system available on the night.

Chief executive of the NWDA, Steven Broomhead,  said: "The 2009 Awards will recognise the very best of the region’s BME business community and celebrate the cultural diversity of England’s north west.

"The NWDA works hard to remove the barriers to economic participation for everyone, ensuring the Northwest economy can grow to its full potential. 

"We hope these awards will spark the imagination of budding entrepreneurs and encourage others to set up or expand businesses in the region."

The EMBF was set up in January 2005 and provides strategic leadership and policy advice to the NWDA, key regional decision makers and stakeholders in order to empower BME businesses to maximise their full potential for the benefit of the region’s economy.

To enter on-line go to www.embfawards.co.uk or call 01925 400100 for an entry form.

All entries must be received by 12 noon Monday 26 January 2009.

To register to attend this event visit www.embfawards.co.uk .