THE Scottish Digital Business Awards is launching its search to find the best companies in the country.

The event, organised by The Herald and supported by Enigma People Solutions, Jumpstart UK and Metadigital, covers many parts of the digital industry including social media, app development, website creation and marketing.

Last year's winners included Spider Online for its innovative app for FirstBus, Edinburgh-based Storm ID for the work with Rules Academy, and Equator, headed by John McLeish, which was crowned Digital Agency of the Year for 2013.

A number of new categories have been added this year, including the out of home award, to recognise digital use of sensory technology ranging from billboards to projections on to buildings, and the digital professional prize for an outstanding individual.

In total there are 11 categories to enter, including retail and e-commerce, education and training, best mobile application and consumer engagement.

Brian Williamson, managing director of Jumpstart UK, which is backing the business to business category, said: "Scotland has been, and continues to be, responsible for some of the greatest innovations in the international arena, so it is extremely important to encourage businesses to innovate and maintain Scotland's world lead in many sectors.

"We look forward to hearing about the businesses that are encouraging creativity and harnessing it commercially in their day-to-day activities by seizing the opportunities offered by digital technology and the internet."

Metadigital is supporting the student award, and its managing director John Macfarlane said: "The awards provide a window to the best of Scotland's digital talent across the gamut of specialist disciplines.

"One of the great things about the event is that it doesn't just focus on established agencies but also provides a platform for emerging talent in the shape of graduates from Scotland's widely respected colleges and universities. "

Enigma People Solutions is supporting the Digital Agency category which will reward innovation in the industry.

David Mains, director of Enigma People Solutions, said: "We are proud of our contribution, assisting and promoting the growth of this sector in Scotland. Digital businesses are major employers and contributors to our economy in Scotland and an important part of our future.

"We are very much looking forward to celebrating every entrant's achievements on the night and are delighted to continue our association and sponsorship of an awards event that is held in such high regard."

The closing date for entries is September 4. Full details are available at http://herald-events.com/digitalawards/  or by calling Lyndsay Wilson on 0141 302 7407.