The Australian Export Awards (AEA), a national program that recognises Australian businesses for their export achievements and contribution to the nation’s economic prosperity, is taking applications for its 2017 honours.

Co-presented by Austrade and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the AEA honours the hard work, commitment and innovation of Australian businesses that deliver world-class business capabilities, products and services.

There are 12 national award categories, including one for outstanding international success by a manufacturer.

The other categories are agribusiness, business services, creative industries, digital technologies, e-commerce, education and training, environmental solutions, health and biotechnology, minerals and energy, regional exports and small business.

State and territory winners will automatically progress as national finalists in their category, and the Australian Exporter of the Year will be selected from the national category winners.

Entering the awards program promises to boost your profile and reputation among local and international customers and is a chance to distinguish yourself from your competitors as a state or national winner and gain media exposure for your achievements.

Finalists and winners will benefit from participating in the program – networking with other successful exporters, attending events including the finalist masterclass, finalist lunch and awards ceremony, feedback on their application from national judges that can be fed back into their own business plans, and receiving recognition for their outstanding achievements.

The awards are also an opportunity to increase your profile with government.

To apply now for the Australian Export Awards, visit www.exportawards.gov.au and enter through your state or territory’s export awards program.