The much-awaited Shepton Innovator Business Awards for 2024 are set to highlight and celebrate the remarkable contributions of local businesses and entrepreneurs in Shepton Mallet and the surrounding areas.

Nominations will open on January 15.

These awards are a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work demonstrated by local businesses in serving and supporting their community. From new ventures that have sprung up since September 2020 to long-standing establishments, the awards recognise a wide array of sectors.

The eight categories for the awards include New Business, Hospitality, Food and Drink Producers, Retail and Professional Service Business, Manufacture and Production, Wellbeing, Sports and Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, and Community Groups. This diverse range of categories ensures that every facet of Shepton Mallet's vibrant business community is acknowledged.

Nominations for the awards opened on Monday 15th January and concluded on Sunday 11th February, offering a platform for small, medium-sized, and large businesses based in Shepton Mallet, Pylle, Prestleigh, Evercreech, Pilton, Oakhill, Croscombe, and Doulting to showcase their achievements.

The judging panel for the 2024 awards includes a mix of local luminaries and business experts:

• Dimitris Koutroumpas, Creative Director at the Art Bank, known for his innovative concepts like Sheptopoly.
• Susan Ayton, Founder and Managing Director of Ayton Global Research Ltd, celebrated for her pioneering work in global research software.
• Dean Mortlock, Managing Editor at Super8 Media, bringing over 30 years of experience in publishing.
• Trish Mason, Founder of two international award-winning companies, now dedicated to supporting art in the community.
• Nicola Fensham, Somerset Business Hub Co-ordinator, with over 20 years of experience in local business management and support.

The Shepton Innovator Business Awards 2024, conducted entirely online, are not just an occasion to honour the achievements of local businesses but also a reflection of Shepton Mallet's dynamic and thriving business environment. It's an event that brings together the best of Shepton Mallet's entrepreneurial spirit and community ethos.