The awards, which were introduced last year, recognise and reward Powys-based businesses. Bucking the trend by launching during the recession, the inaugural competition was such a success that sponsors have already signed up for the 2010 event.

Organisers Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, Powys County Council and the Cambrian News have revealed the list of categories and sponsors for the 2010 awards:

- Business of the Year (sponsored by Powys County Council)

- Judges' Award (sponsored by RES)

- Growth Award (sponsored by Finance Wales)

- Innovation Award (sponsored by Flexible Support for Business Welsh Assembly Government)

- Training & Development Award (sponsored by Coleg Powys)

- Small Business Award (sponsored by the Federation of Small Businesses)

- Start Up Business (sponsored by TGAL Tattum Guest Associates Ltd)

- Export Award (sponsored by HSBC)

- Social Enterprise/Charity Award (sponsored by Mid-Wales Housing Association Ltd)

- Young Entrepreneur Award (sponsored by Cambrian News and Brecon and Radnor Express)

- Retail Award (sponsored by the County Times)

- Manufacturing Award (sponsored by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group)

- Excellence in Food Manufacture/Processing Award (sponsored by Tesco Stores Plc)

- Tourism Award (sponsored by Tourism Partnership Mid Wales)

Nominations will soon be invited. The awards will culminate in a black-tie dinner in Llandrindod Wells in September.