SMALL companies in Sussex looking to export for the first time could scoop a £5,000 prize.

The launch of the new awards by the Department of Trade and Industry follows the announcement of winners of the Queen's Awards for Export Achievement, an award that acknowledges exceptional export increases for more established companies. Anew category of Best Newcomer has been added to the Export Awards for Smaller Businesses, awarded to those companies with up to 250 employees. Small Firms Minister Barbara Roche said: "This award recognises the achievements and resilience of Britain's new exporters and I hope encourages companies selling abroad." The new initiative has won backing and sponsorship from major firms and bodies such as the British Overseas Trade Board, Grant Thornton, Kompass British Exports, TNT Express Worldwide and Lloyds TSB Commercial Finance.

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