Bradford-based charity QED-UK is supporting the University of Luton's second Multicultural Awards for Competitiveness and Enterprise (MACE 2005). The Awards are open to all UK businesses* that have embraced diversity in their business strategies. Applicants must demonstrate their achievements through gender, ethnic or national diversity in the workplace. The Awards will take place in conjunction with MCCE 2005 - the 2nd Multicultural Conference on Competitiveness and Enterprise - on 23 November 2005 at the University of Luton's Putteridge Bury campus.

Mohammed Ali OBE, chief Executive of the Quest for Economic Development, said“ Embracing diversity is coming to be seen as a vital component in business success. We, at QED, believe that the University of Luton’s national awards for diversity 2005 plays an inspiring role in recognizing and promoting that component. Nominating your own business, or one that you admire, for an award is a simple process: we urge you to do so quickly as the deadline for entries is 4th September.”

The MACE 2005 Chairman, Professor Alan Barrell, added: “For 15 years QED has been at the forefront of promoting the economic and educational advancement of the south Asian community in the UK. We are delighted to have its support in highlighting the benefits of diversity in business. This is where our future success as a nation lies, and that is why we strive to attract quality nominations for the 2005 Multicultural Awards for Competitiveness and Enterprise.”

"At their launch in 2003 the Awards attracted entries from across the UK, and from organisations large and small. The Awards provide an unparalleled opportunity for the UK’s business leaders and entrepreneurs to showcase their flair for enterprise, diversity and innovation. Whether you’re a business that cares about motivating the best and most diverse work force; a leading policymaker; or an academic seeking to research this area, the Awards and the Conference are designed for you."

The Awards judging panel will select the most outstanding entry from each of the following categories:

• Diversity Business of the Year
• Diversity within a Start-Up Organisation
• Diversity within an SME Organisation
• Diversity within a Not-for-Profit/Community Organisation
• Diversity within a Public Sector Organisation
• Diversity within a large, Private Sector Organisation

The deadline for nominations is 4th September 2005. To find out more or submit an entry online go to www.mcce.org.uk or contact Rubicon communications on 01865 327813.

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