A date has been announced for next year’s Keighley Business Awards.

Following the success of the inaugural event earlier this year, the 2014 showcase will be on May 16. And companies in Keighley have now been encouraged to attend the formal awards launch.

Details of how firms can take part will be made available at Keighley’s Victoria Hall from 6pm on January 14.

Philip Smith, awards steering group chairman, said: “Our aim is to recognise and reward those businesses making an impact on our local economy and to showcase the entrepreneurial talent in our district.”

Categories for the 2014 awards include New Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Employer of the Year, Manufacturer/engineering Business of the Year, Independent Retailer of the Year, Food and Drink Business of the Year, Health & Beauty Business of the Year and Apprentice/Trainee of the Year. A Business of the Year Award will be presented to the overall winner.

Organisers want to attract dozens of entrants, keen to demonstrate the achievements of both companies and individuals.

The January 14 launch will include a talk delivered by Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, who is Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for employment, skills and culture. There will also be food and refreshments.

The awards are a collaboration between a range of organisations, including Airedale Enterprise Services; Airedale Shopping Centre; Bingley Chamber of Trade and Commerce; CB Digital PR; Clough and Company chartered accountants; the Keighley News; Keighley Town Centre Association and Puddle Digital.

See @KeighleyBA on Twitter or check out keighleybusiness-awards.co.uk for details.