Chamber interim chief executive Mike Halloran said the annual celebration of business success was still recognised as the largest regional business awards in NSW.

Mr Halloran said  the awards could not run without such generous sponsorship and Momentum Energy’s involvement gave the region another rare opportunity to focus on the often unsung stories of success from across a diverse business community.

‘‘For the first time, the winners of the following categories of the 2013 Momentum Energy Illawarra Business Awards will progress through as finalists of the statewide NSW Business Chamber Annual Awards: Excellence in Sustainability, Excellence in Export, Excellence in Innovation, and Excellence in Small Business,’’ he said.

“I encourage all businesses to nominate for the awards and take the chance to showcase your business and gain due recognition not only in the Illawarra, but also potentially across NSW for those that progress through to state finals in November.’’

Momentum Energy managing director Nigel Clark said the company was delighted to partner with the Illawarra Business Chamber on such an important business community event.

‘‘Local businesses are the backbone of this country and we are excited to be able to support the Illawarra region and strengthen our relationship within the community,” Mr Clark said.

The annual business awards are also being supported by the NSW government.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said the government was aware of how important the awards were for promoting business excellence and innovation.

“These awards ... allow the business community to shine a light on talented individuals and business leaders who drive the region’s economy and promote a positive and resolute message about the growing list of business success stories right around our region,” Mr Ward said.

At Business After Hours next week new chamber chief executive Debra Murphy will reveal more about the 20 categories and encourage business to enter at illawarrabusinessawards.

com.au no later than August 30.

The awards presentation is on October 25 at WIN Entertainment Centre.