Women in Business today revealed that this year’s Awards finalists will be invited to an exclusive overnight retreat at RBS Gogarburn in Edinburgh ahead of their fifth annual awards ceremony at the Culloden Estate & Spa on 19 November.

Roseann Kelly, Chief Executive of Women in Business said; “2015 marks the fifth anniversary of our awards and is set to be the most special yet.

“We are proud to be able to offer finalists of this year’s Awards, more than 30 of them, the opportunity to spend two days at a world class working environment that is aimed at fostering innovative and forward-thinking businesses.”

Roseann said the finalists could look forward to an overnight stay followed by a full day of mentoring and learning as part of the retreat.

“The retreat will offer our finalists an opportunity for business and personal development in the company of like-minded women. It’s a great chance for them to make new business connections, take stock of their achievements and learn from each others successes.”

She added; “As well as networking with their peers, our finalists can expect a number of plenary and seminar sessions, which will be facilitated by the Women in Business Chair, Kate Marshall.

“We’ve lined up some of Scotland’s leading industry experts, with inspirational speakers on hand to impart knowledge at bespoke masterclasses and workshops tailored to address business development, improvement and growth.

“There will also be plenty of opportunity for relaxation during the two-day visit, to take in the surroundings and enjoy great food and wine.”

Roseann said there is still time to enter the Women in Business Awards before the closing date of noon on Friday 2nd October.

“The awards ceremony recognises the crème of Northern Ireland’s female business community and celebrates the hard work and achievements of many business women who make a valuable contribution to the economic life here.

“We’ve made the entry process, an online application form, as simple as possible – log on to www.womeninbusinessni.com for more details.

“I would urge anyone who has business successes and achievements to share to get entering. Even if you don’t win an award you may well make the shortlist and be invited to the retreat. That would be a coup in itself.”

Award categories are Young Business Woman of the Year, Best in Professional Services, Equality and Diversity, Best New Start-Up, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Best Marketing Campaign, Outstanding Management / Leadership, Best Customer Services, Best Small Business, Excellence in IT, Best Exporter.

Sponsors and partners of the Women in Business Awards 2015 include the Irish News, Ulster Bank, Q Radio, Department for Employment and Learning, Equality Commission, JC Decaux, Deloitte, Belfast City Council, John McKee Solicitors and Vistage.