BUSINESSES across Winchester committed to improving the local economy are sure to be rewarded as another category is unveiled for this year’s Winchester Business Excellence Awards.

The Business Collective and Osborne have come together to sponsor the Responsible Business Award, which will be presented to a business which has a positive influence on its local economy and community.

Judges will look for evidence of community involvement, bringing real benefits to local people, as well as workplace standards that provide a fair and safe environment for employees.

They will also want to see good supplier relations to support the local economy, high ethical standards in all dealings with customers and effective use of responsible business credentials.

Adrienne Marsden, founder of The Business Collective, said: “The Business Collective was formed with the aspiration of helping Hampshire based SMEs make a difference within their local communities.

We hope to become the kite mark of Responsible Business and so are delighted to be sponsoring an award that acknowledges and celebrates those who want to do good as well as do business.”

Will Hughes, business excellence director for Osborne Property Services, added: “We are delighted to be co-sponsoring the Responsible Business Award alongside The Business Collective.

At Osborne we passionately believe that business can be a force for the good in local communities. We were very proud to be the first winners of this award and extremely pleased to support it this year. It’s a great way to celebrate the fantastic work that goes on in and around Winchester.”

For the sixth year running co-organiser Winchester Business Improvement District is supporting the Commitment to the City award.

The collective, which has been going since April 2008, ensures Winchester has a vibrant business community by offering a range of networking and partnership opportunities.

Catherine Turness, BID manager, said: “Winchester BID is delighted to be able to sponsor this award for the business that makes the greatest contribution to the city. The appeal and success of businesses doing more than just simply trading within the city is growing as more individuals place a value on partnership working.

“This award is open to BID levy-paying businesses that can best demonstrate they have improved the vitality, appeal or environment of an area in the city to benefit others.”

Judges will look for proof of commitment to the local economy and a collaborative working approach. They will also look for clearly defined local projects, tangible benefits to the community and a proactive member of the business community.

Businesses have until 5pm on Friday, February 27 to enter. To find out more visit hampshirechronicle.co.uk/wbea or winchesterbusinessawards.co.uk.