AN event celebrating the brightest businesses in Monmouthshire will return with an expanded format which will welcome nominations from across Gwent.

The sixth annual Monmouthshire Business Awards (MBAs) gives a platform for businesses and entrepreneurs – from start-ups to small-medium enterprises and larger companies – to showcase their success and network with other business people.

Originally called the Abergavenny Business Awards, the MBAs has now grown to cover Monmouthshire and other regions that were once part of it Newport and Caerleon, Caerphilly and Usk, Cwmbran and Ebbw Vale.

The event will be formally launched by host Hywel James at Greenmeadow Golf and Country Club in Cwmbran at 5pm today.

Speaking on a promotional video for the awards, the broadcaster said: “For the past five years it’s been my pleasure and privilege to host the Monmouthshire Business Awards.

“The awards have recognised and celebrated exceptional businesses during that time but it’s been limited to companies that fell within the current Monmouthshire boundaries.

“In the past we’ve been turning companies away because they were not in the appropriate geographical area which doesn’t’ seem right.”

Around 350 attended last year’s event which was held at the Celtic Manor Resort, where Chepstow-based firm Reid Lifting Ltd scooped the Company of the Year Award.

It will be also be the first time that Monmouthshire County Council will not be head sponsors for the event, a title they have held since its founding.

Cath Fallon, head of economy and enterprise, said: “The MBAs have now grown to a point where they can be taken forward without financial support from the council which is clearly really good news.

“We understand that there is an intention to allow businesses from beyond Monmouthshire’s borders to apply for the first time this year. We would have preferred to keep the more local identity but we have been aware of the desire of others to get involved for some time and totally understand why they want to. We wish all applicants the very best of luck.”

Entries close on July 31.