Leading Ethnic Minority Businesses (EMBs) and large corporations will be honoured for their achievements as part of a grand event on 11th October 2012 at the Grange Tower Bridge Hotel.

Hosted by BBC World News presenter George Alagiah , the MSDUK 2012 Awards will recognize achievements of EMBs in the categories of Innovation, Business Growth, and Responsible Business Practices. Corporation of the Year award will be given to a large private sector firm championing supplier diversity.

Alongside the EMBs, corporations including BT, Capital One, HP, GlaxoSmithKline and others will be in attendance.
In a challenging economic environment, smaller businesses especially Ethnic Minority Business have played a role in providing employment opportunities and have contributed close to £40 billion to the UK economy. These companies also help to maintain a more balanced, competitive business environment. The awards aim to recognise the crucial role played by EMBs. They also honour corporations which work closely with EMB’s; shortlisted businesses this year include ExxonMobil, Cummins and IBM.

According to Mayank Shah, Director of MSDUK, “Ethnic minorities today form a substantial percentage of the UK population. It is vital therefore that we do not neglect their economic contribution to the local economy. EMBs need to be supported and encouraged in various ways. MSDUK has already secured over £20m worth of business for EMBs.”
Speaking on the MSDUK 2012 Awards, he added: “In this golden year of Olympics, I am sure that recognising some of the most talented entrepreneurs from the ethnic minority communities at this award ceremony will also inspire the next generation from these communities to start business and become wealth creators.”

Held biennially, the Awards are organised along with a conference and business fair which will give EMBs a chance to showcase their organisations, network and discuss significant issues with large corporations. This year, MSDUK is also hosting a business delegation from the USA consisting of hugely successful US minority businesses looking to form strategic partnership with the UK EMBs.

For more information on the awards, the nominated companies and the MSDUK, please visit www.msduk.org.uk