This past year hasn鈥檛 been easy for anyone, but those in vulnerable situations have had a lot to battle through every single day. Out of their own energy and generosity, local individuals and organisations have stepped up to help those in need.

Commending these amazing people, the , in association with , has an award dedicated to the heroes all across our region, as well as showcasing those who have supported our local economy even in these unprecedented times.

On Thursday, September 16, our industry will get to celebrate the local successes throughout the past year in a glittering ceremony at the Maher Centre. Find more information on the, and contact Michelle Roberts, mroberts@championsukplc.com for tickets.

This year's headline sponsors are: , , , and .

The Not-For-Profit Organisation Award, sponsored by , celebrates the best of the county鈥檚 many not-for-profit organisations that make a real difference to the local community.

The finalists are:

2funky Arts

Established in 2007, 2Funky Arts (2FA) is a social enterprise, dedicated to advancing and celebrating arts and music of black origin. Its projects work instinctively to stir emotion, provoke debate, nurture collaborations and push boundaries across sub-genres. Its high profile platforms for emerging and established artists include And Still I Rise, Project LIVE and its flagship annual event Festival2Funky.

The Y

The Y believes that every young person deserves a safe place to call home and the support they need to make lasting change in their lives. It is home to 102 young people aged 16 to 25 who have experienced homelessness, poor mental health, substance misuse, childhood poverty or abuse.

United Against Violence & Abuse (UAVA)

A consortium that consists of three specialist local domestic and sexual violence charities, United Against Violence & Abuse provides a range of services for those who have been affected by the issues. In creating this organisation it's the first-time that local specialist domestic and sexual violence providers have come together collaboratively as a consortium, underpinned by a legal entity.

Leicestershire Cares

Leicestershire Cares was formed by local businesses and is a membership organisation and charity that supports all children and young people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to ensure nobody is left behind and everyone can reach their full potential.

Committed to learning and development, Leicestershire Cares brokers partnerships between local government, businesses, schools and community groups to deliver lasting positive change for disadvantaged groups and individuals. It is committed to creating opportunities that support inclusive growth and help young people in their transition to the workplace, as well as supporting local community and business needs.

Here are the categories for the :

Company of the Year - Sponsored by

SME Business of the Year - Sponsored by

Employer of the Year - Sponsored by

Business Entrepreneur of the Year - Sponsored by

Excellence in Science & Technology - Sponsored by

Excellence in Manufacturing Award - Sponsored by

Contribution to the Community Award - Sponsored by

Not-For-Profit-Organisation Award - Sponsored by

Excellence in Innovation Award - Sponsored by

Family Business of the Year - Sponsored by

Customer Service Excellence Award - Sponsored by

Apprentice Employer of the Year - Sponsored by

Excellence in Training & Development - Sponsored by

International Trade & Export - Sponsored by

Small Business Growth & Development Award - Sponsored by

Hospitality Innovation Award - Sponsored by

The , in association with, will take place on Thursday, September 16 at Maher Centre. For tickets, please contact Michelle Roberts, mroberts@championsukplc.com.

Find out more information on the official website: .