INVERCLYDE'S business leaders and entrepreneurs have the chance to scoop glittering honours at a high profile awards ceremony again this year.

The Chamber of Commerce has launched the 2024 ICON Awards, which celebrate and recognise outstanding achievements and talents within Inverclyde's business community.

The awards ceremony will take place at Greenock Town Hall on Friday September 20. 

Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce president Lizzy Todd says the awards are an important part of the business scene in the area.

She told the Tele: "The ICON Awards hold great significance for Inverclyde as they honour the accomplishments of our local businesses.

"Recognition through the ICON Awards not only celebrates the outstanding achievements of our local businesses but also motivates and inspires the entire Inverclyde community. 

"We are very excited for this year's awards and would like to encourage all of our local businesses to get involved."

Members of the Chamber gathered together at Gourock Golf Club on May 2 to unveil this year's programme.

The event brought together business leaders, past ICON Award winners, sponsors, and chamber members for a day of speeches, network, and a preview of the year ahead. 

Greenock Telegraph:

This year's awards categories cover health and wellbeing, entrepreneurism, diversity, tourism, internationalism, business growth, community benefits, sustainability, resilience and skills development. 

There's also a Rising Star award for someone under the age of 25 who is making a significant impact in their field. 

The Chamber has chosen Ocean Youth Trust as its charity partner for this year's awards programme. 

The organisation focuses on empowering young people through sailing and other challenging activities. 

Hazel Wisemann, CEO of Ocean Youth Trust, said: "We are thrilled to be the chosen charity for this year’s ICON Awards. 

"Inverclyde is a supportive, generous and thriving local community, and we have been proud to deliver our youth work voyages out of the area for 15 years."

Diodes Incorporated will be sponsoring the event for the third year running. 

Entries will close at midnight on Friday May 31 and finalists will be notified on June 12. 

To enter or find out more visit www.inverclydechamber.co.uk/icon-awards-2024-all-you-need-to-know