START-UP organisation Outset Plymouth has joined the list of sponsors for this year's Herald Business Awards – and is backing a new category.

The £1.2million-funded programme, designed to help people into self-employment, is backing the Spirit of Enterprise section alongside its parent company, the business support consultancy YTKO.

This new award will go to an individual who has overcome hurdles or setbacks, be they due to language, education, mental or physical health, disability or long term unemployment.

But the winner, who will be announced at a black-tie event on Thursday, April 12, at the Holiday Inn, will have shown determination, courage and perseverance in continuing to pursue their dream of running their own business.

Outset Plymouth marketing executive Kevin Kelway said: "Overcoming hurdles to succeed in business is the driving force behind Outset Plymouth/YTKO's sponsorship of this year's awards.

"The Spirit of Enterprise category is open to all micro and small businesses to apply, and applicants need to write in 100 words why they should be considered for the award."

It is the second year Outset Plymouth/YTKO has sponsored the awards, after last year backing the Entrepreneur of the Year category.

Outset Plymouth and its sister organisation Outset Finance are funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Plymouth City Council.

They started in March 2010 with the aim of supporting under-represented groups around the city to start their own businesses.

Outset offers free, one-to-one support, mentoring, workshop sessions, extra support seminars, networking opportunities through its Wednesday Club events, and works from various locations across the city.

"In 18 months Outset Plymouth and Finance have helped support 85 new business start ups, with the creation of more than 90 jobs, adding real value to the Plymouth economy," said Mr Kelway.

Outset Finance has helped secure £300,000 for new and existing businesses declined funding from main stream funding organisations.

YTKO is a national company, based in Cambridge, that works with UK businesses providing support and skills development through the creation of sustainable jobs, and headed by its chief executive, Enterprising Women champion Bev Hurley.