Now in their seventh year, the Digital Entrepreneur of the Year Awards honour the pioneers of the internet. Searching for steadfast business leaders who spot commercial opportunities and technical geniuses working tirelessly behind the scenes on digital advancement, the awards have paid tribute to many of the industry's elite including high profile business giants Building Blocks, Sainsbury's, FunkyPigeon and Wonga.

Al Mackin, CEO of Trafford Park-based SEO agency, TheEword, who walked away with the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2011 said: “2011 was a record year for the Eword with our turnover doubling and a wealth of new clients coming on board. Being named Young Entrepreneur is a fantastic accolade for myself and my great team.”

This year's 12 awards are split into four industry categories: Design and Technology, Sustaining Society, Business Category, and E-Services, and will be judged by a panel of esteemed experts including Dr Chris Smith, founder of The Naked Scientist, Richard Pepper, director at Spilt Ink Studio (Funky Pigeon), Diane Modahl , chief executive at Diane Modahl Sports Foundation and Leanda Falcon, UK digital manager for Kellogg’s.

The DEAs are sponsored by hosting and cloud specialist UKFast – a Manchester firm that has contributed to the online success of many of the UK's most competitive brands for over a decade.

UKFast's CEO Lawrence Jones – 2011’s North West Entrepreneur of the Year – also sits on the DEAs judging panel. He says, "It is absolutely crucial to encourage entrepreneurialism online and reward those who are paving the way for a strong digital future."

Winners will be announced on the 16th October in a glittering awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester. Companies can enter the awards for free by visiting the DEA website at: www.digital-entrepreneur.co.uk.