Strong links between education and business will be recognised at the annual competition.

Blue Sky Financial Planning is celebrating organisations that are dedicated to supporting the development of interpersonal skills of young people, as sponsors of a new award category at this year’s Dorset Business Awards.

The awards are organised by the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), and held in association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo.

The Young Chamber Award will celebrate an organisation making a huge difference to young people through their engagement with schools, colleges, universities and other educational establishments, by helping to strengthen the link between education and business.

Gary Neild, founder and managing director of Blue Sky Financial Planning, said: ‘‘As a founding sponsor of the Young Chamber we believe that young people are the future.

"It is important to invest in them, nurture them and encourage them to achieve their best. It’s important that a pathway is created between business and education so that we can increase the likelihood of young people finding a vocation that best fits their skill set.

‘‘We are excited about being involved with the awards for the first time as we are looking forward to engaging with like-minded people who are committed to making a difference to young people.

"We want to hear about the passion other businesses have, share in their positive experiences and be uplifted by the ways in which they are working with students, enabling them to fulfil their potential.’’

The awards are backed by Wave 105 and are free to enter.

Entrants can submit an entry via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk prior to the closing date on Sunday, September 3.

Entry is open to all companies which are based in Dorset with a BH or DT postcode and membership of DCCI is not required to enter.

For further information about the awards, sponsorship opportunities or to reserve tickets for the Gala Dinner, which will take place at the Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday, November 23, contact Stuart Dixon on 01202 714810.