AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development is accepting nominations for the 2005 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence.

“This prestigious award is presented by the governor each spring, recognizing Maine businesses for their commitment to a dual bottom line – for manufacturing or customer service excellence and for dedication to their employees and community,” said DECD Commissioner Jack Cashman.

“It is this broader view of business excellence that distinguishes this award from other business awards. Moreover, the awards themselves are the product of quality Maine craftsmanship,” Cashman said.

“We encourage Maine businesses of all sizes to apply,” he said.

Introduced in 1991, the award has been presented to 81 Maine businesses. Winners of the 2005 award will be recognized during ceremonies at the Colby College Institute for Leadership next March.

Companies may be nominated, or they may nominate themselves. Nomination forms may be obtained by calling Linda Shaw at 207-624-9825, by sending e-mail to [email protected], or by writing to Shaw at DECD, 59 State House Station, Cross Office Building, 3rd Floor, Augusta, ME 04333.

Questions concerning the nomination process should also be directed to Shaw.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, Nov. 19. The final decisions for award winners will be made in December and recipients will be notified early next year.