Ernst & Young has launched its international Entrepreneur of the Year 2010 award competition in Bahrain for the first time in the history of the competition.

The contest, which has been running for 23 years, aims to celebrate individuals who build and lead successful, innovative and dynamic growth businesses.

The event is held in 135 cities across 50 countries.

This year's programme will provide the first opportunity for Bahrain's leading entrepreneurs to showcase their talent.

Ernst & Young will be seeking out the best entrepreneurs to award the prestigious title of Bahrain Entrepreneur of the Year 2010.

Awards will be given to entrepreneurs who have demonstrated excellence and success in innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.

A gala dinner ceremony will be held in March to award the winner.

The Entrepreneur of the Year will then have the opportunity to represent Bahrain at the world entrepreneur of the year event in Monte Carlo in June.

Nominees will be judged by other entrepreneurs and high-profile business people who understand the challenges, trials and tribulations that companies face in their growth.

There will be a judging reception prior to the gala dinner, where the selected nominees can talk openly about their businesses with Bahrain's top business leaders, sharing inspirations and challenges and focusing on businesses objectives.

'I'm delighted that this year the Entrepreneur of the Year programme will be running in Bahrain for the first time,' said Bahrain office managing partner Essa Al Jowder.

'Globally, every year this award gives entrepreneurs the recognition they deserve. Even in the most challenging times, these business pioneers are looking for opportunity and continue to proactively take calculated risks to grow.

'This is a trait we celebrate and a value we respect and nurture.

'The programme also demonstrates Ernst & Young's commitment to fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship which, in fact, drives the engines of economic growth in these difficult and diverse times,' Al Jowder said.-TradeArabia News Service