The Smaller Business Association of New England announces a call for nominations for its annual New England Innovation Awards. Now in its 21st year, the award program honors private and public New England-based companies that exhibit the innovative spirit and practices that makes them leaders in their field. Nominations forms are available online at www.sbane.org and the nomination deadline is March 9, 2007.
Said SBANE Executive Director Bob Baker, “We recognize that innovation is at the heart of economic prosperity, especially here in New England, where we are surrounded by such robust industries that often set the pace for the rest of the country. With these awards, we celebrate organizations that transform their innovative ideas into a company, product or service that delivers value to customers.”
Companies of all industries, representing the widest possible array of product and service offerings, are eligible for nomination. The one-page nomination form is easy to complete and may be submitted by the company itself, or by a third party. However, the following requirements must be met:
• A minimum of 2 years in business
• Between ten and 500 employees
• Independent and headquartered in New England
• Maximum $100 million in revenue
• Clear indication of innovative practice within its industry
SBANE has the distinction of being among the first to honor such now-familiar names as Staples, Genzyme, Ben & Jerry’s, Security Dynamics, Direct Tire, Nantucket Nectars, Imagitas, Taggies and iRobot. Scott Savitz, CEO of Shoebuy.com, a former winner, is the event chair and leads an independent panel of experts who review and judge the nominations. Awards will be presented at SBANE’s Evening of Innovation gala on May 16, 2007.
