A search is under way to find businesses in Brighton and Hove that will lead the city to a prosperous future.

The initial aim of The Hub 100 is to identify and support the 100 companies in the city with the highest growth potential.

Chairman Simon Fanshawe said the companies selected would be invited to specify the issues they think would limit their growth or hamper their progress.

The Hub 100's support programme would then be based on what was needed rather than what was available.

It would also include specially-commissioned seminars and training workshops.

Businesses in The Hub would become part of one of Brighton and Hove's most influential business networks.

Early plans for The Hub 100's services include networking meetings and online support.

These will be tailored to provide access to new partners, potential investors and support services.

Mr Fanshawe today named Peter Burden to head the project.

He will be responsible for overseeing The Hub 100's launch next month and ensuring the initiative effectively supports Brighton and Hove's key businesses in the next three years.

Mr Burden said: "Brighton and Hove already has a proven, strong economy and The Hub 100 will build on that success.

"We aim to help The Hub 100 companies generate an additional £10 million in revenue and £5 million in investments for the region in the first year."

Peter Field, head of the Brighton and Hove Regeneration Partnership, said: "The partnership fully supports The Hub 100 and believes it will play a key role in identifying and supporting local entrepreneurs and substantial business growth."

The city's leading entrepreneurs with the most exciting business propositions will be selected according to an analysis of their business performance, growth potential and their expected future impact on Brighton and Hove's economy.

The selection process will be managed by the Sussex Innovation Centre and a team of professional advisors.

Firms and individuals are invited to register their interest and receive information about the selection process at register@thehub100.com.

Mr Fanshawe said: "The initiative is open to businesses at any stage of development and will help turn business dreams into realities through a cross-industry network."

The selection panel would be selective about the businesses it chose to work with in terms of being able to address issues relevant to the economy as a whole.

Such issues were likely to include technical collaborations, market knowledge and access, strategy and business skills training, risk analysis, financial management and fund raising, intellectual property and business accommodation.

An online support service offering business advice, contacts and networking opportunities will be launch-ed early next year.

Sharing responsibility for the project are Mike Herd, executive director of the Sussex Innovation Centre, Scott Marshall, Brighton and Hove City Council head of economic development and regeneration, and Emily Aitken, executive director of Wired Sussex.

Mr Marshall said: "This is an opportunity for all business sectors, it is not restricted to the more high- profile new media and creative industries.

"We will be looking for a strong cross-section."