A search for the best business start-ups in the south west has been launched by the HSBC bank.

The HSBC Start-Up Stars Awards are open to all businesses less than two years old.

Ten finalists will get to share prizes worth £65,000, including £20,000 for the winner and £5,000 for the runner-up. Each finalist will also win consultancy services and software worth £4,000 from Croner Consulting and Intuit.

Launching the awards, Nigel Griffiths, Minister for Small Business, said: "Entrepreneurs are the heroes and heroines of our economy.

"As the world becomes more competitive and technology changes even faster, new businesses matter more to our economy than ever before."

John Rendall, head of business banking at HSBC, added: "Last year's entries ranged from a tartan designer to a go-kart manufacturer and we again look forward to discovering great examples of the talent, flair and determination amongst Britain's start-ups."

The closing date for entries is Friday, April 30.

Entry forms are available from HSBC branches or online at www.ukbusiness. hsbc.com