Lloyds TSB Dubai launches Small Business Awards 2006

Set to become one of the most prestigious and sought after prizes acknowledging excellence in business, the Lloyds TSB Small Business Awards 2006 will recognise the most outstanding contributions made to the country by the numerous small businesses established in the UAE.

Giles Cunningham, Chief Executive Officer of Lloyds TSB Group Middle East, said: "Small businesses are important to any economy and vital in a thriving economy such as that of the UAE. Until now, however, the hard working people responsible for much of the country's success have gone unheralded. Whilst big businesses are acknowledged widely, the smaller companies hardly receive any recognition. Well, with the Small Business Awards 2006 we will put this right."

All UAE businesses with less than 50 staff and AED 25 million revenue wishing to apply can do so online at www.sba2006.ae before 10th September. You do not have to be a customer of Lloyds TSB to apply.

Awards will be given in the following categories:

• Entrepreneurial Start-Up sponsored by Links Group of Companies
• Outstanding Customer Service sponsored by i-mate
• Advertising Impact sponsored by Dubai Eye 103.8
• Corporate Social Responsibility sponsored by Allied Pickfords
• Inspirational Leadership
• Overall Small Business of the Year Award sponsored by Lloyds TSB

An independent panel of judges will give the short-listed businesses 'expert advice' and ensure unbiased decisions in the selection process. "I am thrilled to announce that three of the most entrepreneurial personalities in the UAE will be joining me on the panel of judges", said Giles Cunningham.

Jim Morrison, the CEO of i-mate has taken his business from an idea to a major listed company - a true Dubai success story. John Martin St. Valery as partner of Links Group of Companies has supported numerous businesses establishing a local presence here, and Jane Drury has made her business idea Expatwoman.com grow to become the number one platform for new-to-Dubai expats with over 3 million hits a month.

Steve Williams, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Business and Retail Banking of Lloyds TSB Group Middle East, adds:

"We have been overwhelmed with the response the launch of this award has generated from the local business community and I would like to thank all of our sponsors for their support."

500 guests are expected to join the awards ceremony in the Godolphin Ballroom at Jumeirah Emirates Towers on the 5th November 2006. The event will be broadcast live on Dubai Eye 103.8's award winning Business Breakfast.