IMB Bank and the Illawarra Business Chamber (IBC) present the Illawarra Business Awards, a black tie gala event from 6.30pm to 11.30pm.

The IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards celebrate and recognise excellence in business leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, business growth and employment practices across the Illawarra.

The Awards would not be possible without the generosity and support of corporate partners and principle partner, IMB Bank.

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This year saw a record number of supporting and promotional partners who generously assisted with bringing together this year’s awards program, and the IBC encourages the Illawarra business community to acknowledge their valuable contribution.

The NSW Business Chamber recognises success at a local, regional and state level through their Chamber Alliance Partner Program and their award programs.

In addition to recognising and honouring the most outstanding businesses in the region, the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the combined successes of the Illawarra business community.

“This year there will be 18 award categories including a new category of Excellence in Workplace Inclusion to recognise businesses that address the needs of a diverse community including seniors, people from alternate cultural backgrounds and those with disabilities,” chamber executive director Adam Zarth of the IBC said.

IMB Bank is the principal partner of the awards for the third year in a row while the KPMG Wollongong managing partner Warwick Shanks is the auditor of the judging process and University of Wollongong vice-chancellor Professor Paul Wellings is the ambassador of the judges.

IMB Bank chief executive officer Robert Ryan said the historic Illawarra headquartered business support the awards so significantly because they truly are a regional event that supports achievement in the local economy.

The Awards provide networking opportunities, the chance to share remarkable stories and ongoing brand exposure to the entire region.

For entrants, the Awards provide a platform for reviewing business operations with fresh eyes, as well as the eyes and minds of experts.

They put a spotlight on the region, showcasing the success stories of our most outstanding businesses, business leaders and marketing the Illawarra region.

Twelve of the 18 categories are aligned with the NSW State Awards, meaning the winners of the aligned categories will be given the opportunity to compete at state level and bring further recognition to their business and the region. The State Gala Awards Dinner will be held on November 23 in Sydney.

Tickets are available via Ticketmaster and at the WIN stadium box office. See the website businessannualawards.com.au/regions/Illawarra for more information.

Winners of the IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards 2018 will be announced at an awards ceremony on Friday, October 19 at WIN Entertainment Centre.

Set to dazzle

A Parisian Soiree will transport guests to the “City of Lights” known for its Age of Enlightenment that has inspired many an artist and writer.

Paris is also known for its chic fashion, top cuisine and culture. Look out for the Eiffel Tower and other draw cards from this amazing city.

The black tie gala event will showcase a three course menu with a French twist designed by acclaimed chefs from restaurants in Wollongong, the Southern Highlands and South Coast including Caveau, Cupitt's Winery and Stones Patisserie.

This is an opportunity for the staff of finalist businesses to enjoy their success on a night of entertainment and celebration.