ORGANISERS of an awards ceremony which celebrates the people and the organisations that make Glasgow great have made a fresh appeal for nominations for the record number of categories.

The Inspiring City Awards 2014 has already received many nominations but with three weeks to the entry deadline, organisers want to ensure no-one misses out on their achievements being recognised.

Winners of the awards, now in their second year, will be be announced at an awards ceremony held in Glasgow on September 11.

The Inspiring City Awards, organised by The Herald and Glasgow Chamber of Commerce in association with award-winning city brand People Make Glasgow, are designed as a platform for Glasgow to showcase its talents.

Members of the public are invited to help get recognition for individual and corporate success in sport, education, industry and culture, in a bid to boost Glasgow's reputation as a city of commerce and culture.

Last year's winner, Barrhead Travel, was recognised as an organisation that is making a sizeable contribution to Glasgow's growth and success.

This year sees the introduction of a new Legacy Award, which has been introduced to assess how the 2014 Commonwealth Games have helped businesses, communities and individuals create lasting change across Glasgow.

The Herald is supporting the Outstanding Contribution Award, to be presented on the evening to an individual or organisation who has dedicated their time and energy to the development of the city and its people.

Councillor Gordon Matheson, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow City Marketing Bureau, said: "This is the most significant year in the city's history - it's the Year of Glasgow - and our ambition is to capitalise on the success of 2014, creating a lasting legacy through regeneration, job creation and supporting business growth. The People make Glasgow Award will deservedly recognise that special individual or business that has gone above and beyond to support Glasgow's thriving economy and cultural climate."

June Walker, chief executive of Glasgow Credit Union, said: "There are so many inspiring stories behind Glasgow's businesses - the reasons they were created, the people that drive them forward and the impact they have on their community. It's these stories, which speak about success in terms of more than just profit, that we want to hear from entrants."

Elizabeth Partyka of STV Glasgow said: "Glasgow is a city rich in art and culture and this year we have an even greater opportunity to share our contributions with the world. The Art and Culture award we are supporting will recognise the hard work and ­innovation of entrants to ensure ­Glasgow remains a pioneer for art and culture both here and on a global stage."

Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: "This is a huge year for Glasgow and the eyes of the world will fall on the city when we play host to the 2014 Commonwealth Games. It will be the largest multi-sporting event Scotland will have ever hosted and for many, Glasgow Airport will be the gateway to the Games.  The Games will hopefully inspire people, regardless of age and ability, to get involved in sport and I would encourage anyone who has helped foster the development of sport in Glasgow to enter."

Stephen Flynn, Vice Chairman of Glasgow Taxis, said: "Education is one of the most important gifts that we can provide for our society. It not only helps individuals build a bank of knowledge and skills but also contributes invaluably to a person's self confidence and development.  We firmly believe that tribute should be paid to those individuals and institutions that continually seek to strengthen and develop educational opportunities across the city. That being said, we are delighted to be supporting the Inspiring City Education Award and are looking forward to learning about the admirable efforts of such bodies."

NHSGGC Chairman Andrew Robertson: "We need people who have the ambition for tomorrow that will surpass the ambitions of our business leaders of yesteryear.   In the business of healthcare we know only too well the importance of the development of forward thinking leaders who bring both vision and innovation to the NHS.  That's why we are delighted to be able to sponsor the Outstand Contribution by a Young Business Leader category in 2014."

Kevin Roxburgh, managing director, Scottish Gas, said: "Caring for our environment and making best use of our resources is at the heart of our business, that is why we are proud to sponsor this award and celebrate best business practice in Glasgow."

Anne Ledgerwood, general manager of the St Enoch Centre, said: "We are supporting the legacy category in order to celebrate those who are making a positive difference to Glasgow and its communities.  Entrants could include businesses that have won contracts and created new jobs and organisations that have secured facilities or services that will advance and enrich our communities. We also want to hear about those individuals whose contributions have had a positive impact that will last long after 2014."

Readers have until Thursday July 31 to submit their nominations in the following categories: Sport (supported by Glasgow Airport); Environment (Scottish Gas); Industry and Business (Glasgow Credit Union); Education (Glasgow Taxis); Art and Culture (STV Glasgow); Best Corporate Social Responsibility (Glasgow Caledonian University); Legacy (St Enoch Centre); Outstanding Contribution by a business leader (Glasgow Chamber of Commerce); Outstanding Contribution by a young business leader (NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde); Working Together; and People Make Glasgow.

For more details on how to enter see www.herald-events.com/inspiringcity