Despite their varied backgrounds, many have something in common. Their success was inspired by someone they met – a colleague, employee or employer, for example.

So who are these unsung heroes who contribute so much to the success of our local economy? We created Inspiration East to find out and, more importantly, to publicly recognise the invaluable role such people play.

Inspiration East makes its awards annually. Anyone who has achieved success can nominate someone – all you have to do is explain how you were inspired by them in a business context, and how that inspiration affected you in your working life.

Entries are judged by a panel made up of past recipients of Inspiration East awards, local business people, and others who play a part in the region´s business success.