Almost 40 companies have reached the finals of the Cornwall Business Awards.
The awards are run by Cornwall Development Company to showcase the county's brightest business talent.
Etherington Meats, of Wheal Rose, has been shortlisted for Best Family Business. It has having grown to employ 53 people in the years since it was founded by the grandfather of current managing director Mark Etherington.
He said: "I'm humbled by this nomination as I'm only doing a job that I love. "I employ as many local folk as possible and our excellent reputation comes from their dedication."
Stithians based Benjamin Stedman Design has been nominated for the Most Creative Use of Design Award. Its sustainable, Cornish bus and cycle shelters are increasingly common around the county.
Director Yorick Benjamin said: "Our Cornish shelters are designed to last 50 years, so seeing the proof of our achievements will take some time. This nomination is much appreciated while we're waiting."
Camborne based Coastline Housing has been shortlisted in the Customer Focus category. Chief executive Robert Nettleton said: "Customers are at the heart of everything we do, so being shortlisted for a Customer Focus award is a very special achievement for us."
St Day based Clear-flow has been nominated for Most Dynamic Growth Business, in recognition of a sustained increase in turnover, profitability and staff. Finance director Mark Marriott said: "Making the final is like getting to the Oscars for us. We are all really excited about the awards dinner."
Hayle-based Cornwall Music Academy director Nikki Wagstaffe has been nominated for the second time for Young Business Person of the Year. Her company teaches music to 600 Cornish schoolchildren.
The winners will be announced at the Cornwall Business Awards dinner on May 16 at St Mellion International Resort. A full list of the award categories and criteria, and an online entry form, are available at www.cornwallbusinessawards.co.uk.
