Previously the awards were held biennially but Business South has responded to the interest in last year’s event by staging it again this year.
With entries closing this Friday, registrations were already on a par with 12 months ago.
Business South chief executive Mike Collins said there remained a lot of keenness from businesses wanting to highlight their success.
"With businesses having been through a lot with Covid, last year was a good opportunity to come together and celebrate," Mr Collins said.
"The demand is still there with businesses appreciating the chance to showcase."
There was a clear reinforcement of the interest in the awards and the recognition of business success through the number of previous winners wanting to play a part.
"We’ve had award winners come back, asking how they can support the event.
"They want to acknowledge the leverage they’ve got out of it in terms of positive business perspective," he said.
Having received feedback that the entry process was a bit long-winded, Business South had streamlined the entry process to make it easier and less time-consuming.
Business South was always open to considering the introduction of new category ideas.
"We had an approach the other day to look at a tradies category, so when those suggestions come through, they are discussed on a case-by-case basis.
"And we are also open-minded about adapting to the needs of the time — so what is topical now may not be the case in five years.
"We need to be able to flexible," Mr Collins said.
The 2023 awards dinner will be held in mid-November.
