The shortlist for the 2013 Monmouthshire Business Awards has been announced, with 28 of the county's 'best and brightest' companies in the running.

Local businesses set to battle it out in the finals this year include Kate's Country School at Llanvetherine (Most Promising Start-Up and Best Diversity in Farming); Penpergwm House (Training and Excellence in People Development); Abergavenny Food Festival (Environmental and Sustainability award) and Henry Ashby's Wild Food (Best Food Tourism Business).

The winners will be announced at a Gala Awards Dinner at the Marriot St Pierre, Chepstow, on Friday, October 11.

Awards co-founder Janet Harris says there has been an 'unprecedented' level of interest in this year's MBAs, with a 35 per cent rise in enquiries and 20 per cent increase in submissions — totalling 72 firms, up from 61 in 2012.

The overall range and standard of entries have also increased — with a notable spike in the number of applications from small and micro-sized businesses.

Now in its second year, the MBAs — dubbed the 'Oscars' of the Welsh business industry and backed by Monmouthshire County Council — recognise innovation, talent and enterprise in the wider local community.

Each winner will receive a trophy, cheque for £300, and £500 worth of vouchers for use in the conference facilities at the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport.

The awards have been split into 12 categories: Most Promising Start Up; Best Food Tourism Business; Training and Excellence in People Development; Excellence in Retailing; Excellence in Marketing; Innovation in Business; Best Social Enterprise; Young Entrepreneur; Company demonstrating Sustained Growth; Excellence in Environmental and Sustainability; Diversity in Farming and Company of the Year.

In addition, a Judges' Choice Award will be presented to one of the shortlisted finalists deemed to be the best entrant overall.