TODAY the Evening Mail launches its Business Boost campaign to help businesses grow.

We have joined forces with the chartered accountant Lamont Pridmore to offer free advertising, mentoring and support to enterprises that show growth potential.

Applications are invited in two categories. One for new businesses – up to five years old – and one for established businesses of any age with fewer than 250 employees.

This is the fourth year that CN Group, the Evening Mail's parent company, has run the scheme. Our sister newspapers across Cumbria are also taking part.

A total of six businesses will win £10,000 to spend on advertising in our newspapers and associated websites – there will be one winner from each category for south, west and north Cumbria.

The aim is to help businesses reach new markets and so boost sales and profits.

Julian Whittle, CN Group business editor, said: “Business Boost gives businesses a helping hand when they need it most, when they're growing.

“Launching a new business, product or service can put enormous strain on cashflow and resources, so an extra £10,000 to spend on advertising and promotion could easily make the difference between success and failure.

“And the mentoring and advice on offer is priceless.”

Lamont Pridmore is offering finalists a copy of its book, 57 Ways to Grow Your Business, the help sheet What Makes a Successful Business and the booklet Competitiveness – How the Best UK Companies are Winning.

It will also offer an additional special sponsor's prize of free consultancy support to a business that it feels will benefit particularly.

Chief executive Graham Lamont said: “Our team is proud to be involved in an initiative that recognises the importance of encouraging the growth and development of our entrepreneurial and family businesses in Cumbria.

“In recognition of their hard work and dedication, we are offering a range of additional prizes to help them further boost their business performance.

“At Lamont Pridmore, we offer a range of products and services designed to meet our clients’ needs and help their businesses grow.

“We look forward to meeting and mentoring some of the business leaders of tomorrow through Business Boost 2017.”

Last year’s prizes in south Cumbria were shared by Cumbrian Cow, Chocolate Cottage and Swim the Lakes.

Entrants should outline how their businesses will grow and how they might use a £10,000 advertising campaign.

The closing date is March 31. Judging takes place early in April – details of the judging panel will be announced shortly – when shortlisted finalists will be invited to make a Dragons’ Den-style pitch. Winners will be announced at the end of April.

Apply online at www.nwemail.co.uk/businessboost.