AN ORGANISATION which has been at the heart of business for more than a quarter of a century has given its backing to the new Surrey Digital Awards (SDAs).
Surrey Chambers of Commerce, which boasts a membership of more than 1,500 businesses across the county, has become "key supporter" for the inaugural competition, which is also backed by the Surrey Mirror.
The association, which lobbies Government for the betterment of the county's prospects, is based in Woking, the town chosen to host the SDAs winners' evening on March 5. Chief Executive Officer Louise Punter is "delighted" to get behind the SDAs.
"I feel the time is right for us to recognise the significant strides forward that businesses in Surrey have made within the online marketplace," she said. "I'm very proud of our county and the appetite we have for embracing new technologies and innovative ways of reaching our customers.
"One of the great features of the SDAs is its ethos. The judges are looking to reward businesses, schools and charities who demonstrate outstanding work online and not necessarily with the greatest resources at their disposal. They are looking for the X Factor, not necessarily the product of huge budgets."
Ms Punter explained why she expects the SDAs to be a huge success. "Surrey is one of the most successful and productive areas in the UK. With an economy worth more than £30 billion and a net return of taxes to the Government of £6 billion, it embraces innovation and is a fantastic location to run a business.
"Sitting at the heart of this community, Surrey Chambers of Commerce has acted as a catalyst by connecting business to opportunities, skills, knowledge and valuable contacts for over 25 years.
"With a membership representing every sector of the economy, the Chamber works hard to ensure that the continued growth of Surrey takes into account the needs of business, as well as providing a range of high quality services to help businesses to grow and meet new customers.
"We help business to grow and develop by promoting them, keeping them informed and representing them locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally. Chamber members have the best chance to thrive and prosper.
"Surrey Chambers of Commerce is an integral part of the Surrey business support network and alongside its partners offers specialist advice on a huge range of fundamental issues facing local businesses."
Andy Pritchard from Premio64, the organisation behind the awards, described the alliance with Surrey Chambers as a "great step forward".
He added: "We are thrilled to be endorsed by an organisation which has achieved so much for businesses across the county."
The SDAs has ten categories including Website, Mobile App, Responsive Website, Online Marketing Campaign, School, Education or Charity Website, Use of Social Media for Business, Use of Video for Business, Online Business, Blog and Small Business Website.
Entry is free and takes less than two minutes to complete. The competition closes on January 9. The winners' evening will take place at the Holiday Inn, Woking, on March 5, 2015.
