New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has introduced a new category in the New Zealand International Business Awards to recognise Maori excellence in export.

The He kai kei aku ringa category acknowledges Maori business’ contribution to our export economy and the approach, values and tikanga that are unique to Maori business, NZTE says.

“M?ori are heavily invested in the primary sector and other key export industries. This category will raise the profile of that contribution and encourage innovation and greater participation in the export economy,” says board member Robin Hapi.

The two leadership awards among the special categories have been reduced from two to one, but the overall number of special categories stays the same at six.

NZTE has also introduced assistance for entrants, including pitch and tender training by private sector advisors and a session with its Better By Capital team on growth finance options. Entrants will also get two months’ access to research from the awards assessors, Frost and Sullivan.

Past winners of the Supreme Award include Beca, Orion Health and 2013 winner Tru-Test.

Entries close 11 June and winners will be announced at a ceremony in Auckland next March.

The categories for 2015 are:

General categories for International Business

Best Business Operating Internationally – under $10 million

Best Business Operating Internationally – $10-$50 million

Best Business Operating Internationally – over $50 million

Special categories for International Business

Excellence in Innovation

Excellence in Marketing

Excellence in Operations

Excellence in Design

He kai kei aku ringa for M?ori Excellence in Export

Excellence in Leadership