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New award gets backing from Welsh Government [Western Mail (Wales)](Western Mail (Wales) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) THE Welsh Government has signed up as an official sponsor of the Monmouthshire Business Awards. They are sponsoring the Excellence in Digital Technology Innovation category at this year's awards New for 2014, the award recognises the growing importance of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector to the Welsh economy -- estimated to be worth Pounds 1.2bn and growing. Dave Bevan of the Monmouthshire Business Awards (MBA) says the sponsorship deal with the Welsh Government is an "excellent outcome" that underlines the importance of digital technology to businesses within the region. He added: "Getting the official backing of the Welsh Government is a major coup for the awards, and shows that our goals of celebrating and stimulating business in Monmouthshire is supported at the highest level. "The ICT sector is now worth in excess of Pounds 1.2bn to the Welsh economy, so it important to reward the best examples of digital technology within Monmouthshire and encourage further investment in the region. "We are delighted to welcome the Welsh Government on board as our final sponsor for this year's MBA awards. "It's an excellent outcome and sends businesses across the region the right signals about the need to invest in digital technology." Economy Minister Edwina Hart said: "These awards acknowledge excellence in business and hopefully will inspire budding entrepreneurs. "ICT is one of the sectors we have identified to drive growth and create jobs. This award recognises the importance of the industry and the good work being done by Welsh businesses in this sector." Backed by Monmouthshire County Council, the MBAs -- dubbed the "Oscars of the Welsh business industry" -- recognise innovation, talent and enterprise in the wider local community. The annual contest, now in its third year, is open to businesses of all sizes. Entrants range from startups and sole traders to SMEs, blue chips and larger organisations. Other sponsors of this year's awards include Northern Automotive Services (NAS), a car component manufacturer based in Gilwern; Cardiff-based law firm Capital Law and advertising agency Hello Starling; University of South Wales, Newport; and, Welsh broadband provider Spectrum Internet. Former MBA winners Reid Lifting, Chepstow-based construction firm Mabey Bridge, and the Celtic Manor Resort have also given their support to the prestigious awards, as have Finance Wales, Monmouthshire Housing and Palamedes PR. (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |