Highlighting the north east's up and coming businesses, the finalists in this category were nominated by Enterprise business advisors and RBS business banking managers. The finalists are:

• CP&Co
• Lili Hunter Consulting
• Shop Pulse Limited (winner)

Businesses in this category achieved or were on track to achieve exceptional, sustainable organic growth in any market sector. The finalists are:

• ADSPAD
• Entier Limited (winner)
• Rigmar Services Ltd

For companies over three years old that have achieved sustainable organic growth, The finalists are:

• Hall Morrice
• Arrowdawn
• ACE Winches (winner)

This award recognises individuals under the age of 35 who have taken the risks necessary to undertake a business venture that stands out from the crowd. The finalists in this category are:

• Andrew Gray; Biyoni Creative Hairdressing(winner)
• Francis Udom; Bunmi Koko Ltd
• Jamie Hutcheon; Cocoa Ooze Chocolates

Rewarding an individual entrepreneur who has made an outstanding contribution to their company, industry sector and the wider economy, this is a new category added to this year's shortlist and the finalists are:

• Graeme Duncan; Xtreme Business Solutions
• Ciaran Dreelan; Aker Qserv (winner)
• Graeme Sutherland; Whitelink Seafoods

Highlighting business men and women, inventors, innovators, professional advisers, bankers, lawyers, accountants and mentors who use their experiences to provide support to new and growing businesses. The finalists in this category are:

• Christine Webster; Aberdeenshire Council
• Roz Caudwell; Enterprise North East Trust (winner) 
• Andy Willox; Federation of Small Businesses

Showing the ability to create, nurture and develop innovative products, processes or services, the finalists in this category are:

• Corpo Systems Ltd
• Nautilus Rigging LLP
• Titan Torque Services Limited (winner)

A new category added this year; the finalists for the Employer of the Year Award demonstrated corporate success achieved through well-adopted business values that support and stimulate their workforce. The finalists are:

• ContiTech Beattie Ltd
• Driver Hire and dh Recruitment
• Take 5 Catering Ltd (winner)

Showing a unique approach to performance, people development, technology and a significant contribution to the community, the finalists in this category are:

• Aberdeen Forward
• Inverurie Chartered Physiotherapy Clinic (winner)
• Treasure Trails

• RBS - Main Sponsor
• Aberdeen City and Shire
• Business Gateway
• Optima Solutions
• Wood Group