Make this the year you enter Isle of Man Newspapers’ Awards for Excellence.

It’s not just for large companies and public sector organisations, there are opportunities for businesses of all sizes to win or become finalists and there are real benefits as young entrepreneur, Keirron Tastagh, has discovered.

Keirron’s company is Adventurous Experiences, the adventure sports centre based in St John’s.

It has been a finalist in the Corporate Social Responsibility category of the awards for three consecutive years, for its outstanding Youth Scholarship - Development and Leadership Programme.

The programme provides long-term adventure training and scholarships for young students from the island. This enables them to rise to be part of a team embarking on a once in a lifetime, shared experience. The entire 18 months training package was originally funded by Adventurous Experiences.

Its success at the awards has proved that you don’t have to be a big company with a large budget to have great Corporate Social Responsibility programmes. And being a finalist for the last three years has helped to make their programmes even better.

Keirron explained: ’Entering the awards not only gave the business recognition for the major community project, it helped attract sponsorship from Conister Bank towards a whole intake of students.

’The awards highlighted our long-term strategy to raise the level of outdoor skills and safety on the island.

’Critically evaluating what you are doing and what you wish to achieve is a fundamental part of business, and coaching people. The process of entering the awards as a successful small business ensures you do this thoroughly.’

Keirron added: ’Being at the awards evening has brought us into contact with some influential people.

’We chose PDMS to work with us creating a new website to reflect 14 years of delivering real risk management education in the Isle of Man, and used the awards logo to highlight our commitment to excellence in coaching and leading people.

’I am very grateful for the opportunities the awards have provided, and the recognition it gives to our loyal team and the network of businesses who share our passion for excellence.’

There are 16 award categories for companies of all sizes, individuals, public sector teams and charitable and cultural organisations.

Full details and downloadable entry forms at www.iomtoday.co.im