Ceredigion County Council is inviting entries for the Gwobrau Caru Ceredigion Awards 2024.

The awards, set for December, aim to celebrate the outstanding contributions and accomplishments of businesses, community initiatives, and individuals throughout the county.

There are 12 categories open for entries, recognising everything from community innovations, such as repurposing old buildings, to young entrepreneurs, successful events, and the tourism sector.

Small enterprises, large businesses, non-profit organisations, charities, and community groups are all encouraged to participate.

The event is being organised by Cynnal y Cardi under the Caru Ceredigion banner.

Caru Ceredigion is a community-driven campaign that seeks to instil a sense of pride in the county, while motivating people to engage in activities that improve the environment, support businesses, and improve the community.

Cynnal y Cardi, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, works to help boost the economy and tackle some of the challenges faced by people and businesses, with a focus on developing opportunities to help the economy grow and thrive.

Despite Ceredigion's thriving knowledge sector, high skill levels, and impressive business survival rates, the county faces challenges such as attracting new businesses, creating jobs, and providing opportunities for younger people to remain in the county.

Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion’s cabinet member responsible for economy and regeneration, said: "We are proud and excited to be hosting our first ever Caru Ceredigion Awards to celebrate the success and achievements of businesses, young entrepreneurs and communities across the county.

"It is an opportunity for us to congratulate and celebrate success, talent, creativity and innovation in Ceredigion.

"I’m encouraging everyone to take the opportunity to nominate those who truly make a difference in your communities so we can recognise and give credit for their exceptional work within the county."

The full list of eligible categories and criteria can be found on the Ceredigion County Council website, where nominations can also be made.

The awards are free to enter, with the closing date for entries on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

Judging will take place in November by a panel of expert judges, with a shortlist announced ahead of the winners being unveiled at the ceremony on December 12, 2024.