The shortlist for the the Courier Business Awards 2017 has been announced, and a number of companies from Scotland’s science and tech sectors have made the cut. SoilEssentials, STAR-Dundee, and Exscientia are among the nominations for the event, which will take place on October 28th at Dundee’s Apex City Quay Hotel.

This year’s awards received a record number of nominations, with over 130 businesses put forward for a prize. The shortlist will now be put before a panel of judges including; David Smith, managing partner of sponsors Henderson Loggie, Social Investment Scotland chairman Nick Kuenssenburg, V&A Dundee director Philip Long, and Courier editor Richard Neville.

Commenting on the awards, Smith said: “It is a fantastic shortlist this year. We have built on the submissions from previous years and we have an incredible range of companies that have come forward.”

Also making her debut on the judging panel will be Scottish Chambers of Commerce director and chief executive Liz Cameron OBE. ”

“It is great to see so many businesses not just surviving but thriving,” She said. “The quality of the applications, and the breadth of sectors they cover, is fantastic. Courier Country certainly excels in terms of innovation – we’ve seen some absolute hidden gems.”

Neville added: “To have in black and white in front of you such a wealth of exciting businesses – with great ideas, innovative products and services and the drive to see things through – is just so inspiring.

“It shows beyond doubt that Courier Country is thriving and the business community here has every right to hold its head high.”

The science and tech businesses included in this year’s shortlist are as follows (listed by award nominated):

• Design & Innovation: STAR – Dundee, Exscientia, SoilEssentials
• Digital: Horisk Leslie Development, Ninja Kiwi, UK Games Talent and Finance CIC
• Enterprise in Education: STAR – Dundee, MyWay Digital Health, Whole Life Consultants
• Manufacturing: Ingenico
• Rural: SoilEssentials
• Science & Technology: STAR – Dundee, Exscientia, Vascular Flow Technologies
• Young: UK Games Talent and Finance CIC