The Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, Tim Passmore, has welcomed the success of this year's Suffolk BME Business Awards after a £600 donation was jointly agreed by the Commissioner and the Chief Constable through the Police Property Act Fund.
Now in its seventh year, the Suffolk BME Business Awards celebrate the achievements of Black and Minority Ethnic entrepreneurs as well as organisations and community champions from across the county.
The awards recognise excellence across nine categories and highlight outstanding contributions to business and community engagement.
This year's finalists include healthcare professional Dr Payal Bhalla, businessman Jijo Sebastian, Aqua Pharmacy, Suffolk Muslim Centre, Karibu African Women's Support Group and popular Suffolk restaurants Cappadocia, Shish Anatolia and The Curry Inn.
The awards continue to showcase the innovation and community spirit that exists across Suffolk's diverse communities with a particularly strong representation from Ipswich.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, Tim Passmore, said: "I am delighted that the Police Property Act Fund has been able to support these important awards which shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of individuals and businesses from Suffolk's Black and Minority Ethnic communities.
"Strong communities are built on aspiration and positive role models.
“These awards recognise people and organisations that make a real difference.
"It is particularly encouraging to see such a strong presence from Ipswich among this year's finalists.
“Their success reflects the diversity, ambition and talent that enriches our county and helps make Suffolk a safer, stronger and more prosperous place to live and work.
"I would like to congratulate all those who have been shortlisted and thank the organisers for their continued commitment to celebrating achievement and promoting inclusion across Suffolk."
The Police Property Act Fund is made up of money received by the police through the sale of found property that cannot be returned to its rightful owner.
Funds are distributed to support local charitable, community and voluntary initiatives that align with the priorities of the Police and Crime Commissioner and Suffolk Constabulary.
The £600 contribution towards the awards was jointly agreed by the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable in recognition of the positive role the event plays in celebrating community achievement, promoting equality and supporting stronger, more cohesive communities across Suffolk.
Photography - JOHN WRIGHT/ BBC