THE twenty-eight finalists for the Asian Business Federation’s 2009 Tiger Awards have been announced.

The eight judges selected four short-listed nominees for each of the seven award categories.

These criteria included considerations including profitability, sustainability, innovation and potential for growth. The shortlists were announced by ABF general manager, Mubarak Chati this week.

He said: "The judges were struck by the sheer energy of this year’s applicants.

"Despite difficult economic times, they saw clear evidence that, through a combination of effort, innovation and intelligent strategy, many North West businesses are going from strength to strength.

"It’s very heartening to see hard work being rewarded and to know that even in challenging times, entrepreneurship is alive and well."

The 2009 competition sees a broader spectrum of companies than ever before. They range from sole traders to internationally active manufacturing organisations and they operate in sectors ranging from food to pharmaceuticals, architecture to education.

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 21 November at the Hilton Hotel, Manchester by presenters including public service modernisation specialist, Sir Bill Taylor and broadcast journalist Reham Khan. The event itself is expected to draw nearly 500 delegates from across the region.

Places at the Tiger Awards presentations are still available and can be booked either by visiting the awards website – www.tigerawards.co.uk – or by contacting Carolyn Hayes on 0845 607 0786.

The nominees are as follows;

Business of the Year

  • Shazan Food Limited, (Food manufacturer)
  • Crown Cabinets, (Kitchen & bedroom manufacturer)
  • UK Sling & Tackle Ltd, (Heavy lifting supplier)
  • Eastone Specials, (Manufacturer and supplier of medicines)

Business Personality of the Year

  • Mr Rafiq Masters, BFX Capital, (Finance)
  • Ms Mary Habiba Davidson, Mary HD Entertainment Ltd, (Singer songwriter)
  • Mr Raj Tewani, DBFCM, (Consultancy)
  • Ms Elaine Owen, Designated Associates & Designated Design, (Learning and business support solutions)

New Business Start-Up of the Year

  • Re-Publish Media Ltd, (Print, media, publishing)
  • Mirzali Architecture, (Architecture)
  • Euro Data Services, (Scanning and paperless solutions)
  • HBS Pharmacy, (Healthcare and pharmacy)

Creative, Digital & New Media Award

  • Mr Monir Ali, Monir Ali Photography
  • Mr Mohammed Isap, MPG, (Media & design)
  • Mr Ian Fisher, Fisher Educational, (Educational training solutions)
  • Mr Nomi Farooq, Rapid Learning Life, (Digital training and learning solutions)

Outstanding Woman In Business Award

  • Ms Claire Moore, Certain Curtain Theatre Company, (Touring theatre company)
  • Ms Shubana Malik, Leigh Bailey Solicitors, (Solicitors)
  • Ms Vahida Naeem, Direct Today Couriers Ltd, (Couriers)
  • Ms Nusret Ahmed, Manchester Asian Care Ltd, (Care and support)

Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award

  • Mr Zeeshan Mohammed, Stylish Mobile Ltd, (Mobile communications)
  • Mr Waheed Rahman, Bilal Poultry Products Ltd, (Poultry meats)
  • Mr Yasin Chopdat, Blueberry Design, (Graphic designer)
  • Mr Anis Bhad, TCK Deli Ltd, (Food & catering)

International Company of the Year

  • Chillingo Ltd, (Publisher and developer of video games)
  •  Rosemead Designs, (Manufacturing home furnishings)
  • ATG Access Ltd, (Manufacturing retractable bollards)
  • Heena Fashions, (Apparel manufacturer)