MUMS in Scotland who run their own businesses are being invited to celebrate their success by entering the first Inspirational Business Mum of the Year award.

The award is a new category at the 2007 Prowess Awards and recognises the commitment, drive and determination it takes for mums to succeed in enterprise.

The launch follows a recent study which found that mums who set up businesses from home have become a powerful force in Britain, with a combined turnover of £4.4billion.

Open to all mothers who run their own business, the Inspirational Business Mum of the Year award is looking to highlight those who have a story to inspire others.

The panel of judges - which includes Sally Preston, owner of food firm Babylicious, and Sylvia Philips, vice-chairwoman of Prowess - will study each story, looking at how and why the mum developed her firm and the personal issues involved in looking after a family as well.

They will also look for mothers who have got the work/life balance right and perhaps helped to mentor other women along the way.

Three finalists will be invited to the Prowess Awards Gala dinner in February when the overall Inspirational Business Mum of the Year winner will be announced.

Catherine Kehoe, of award sponsors Yellow Pages directories, said: "Our research earlier this year pinpointed mums as a growing force in UK business who deserve to be championed, and we're delighted to help celebrate some of the many successes."

Early entrants for the award are Gayle Waite, 30, of Glasgow, and her business partner Karen Goddard, who set up Scribbles, community based art classes for children.

The women - both mums - wanted a business where they could not only look after their own children but to do something their children could be actively involved in too.

Gayle said: "We are both qualified primary school teachers but weren't satisfied working part-time."

The Inspirational Business Mum of the Year is one of eight Prowess Awards 2007, which celebrate those paving the way for women starting and growing businesses.

Other award categories include Female Business Mentor of the Year and Business Support Professional of the Year and Female Business Mentor of the Year.

Nominations should be sent to www.bizmums.co.uk/inspirational, or call 020 7025 6551. Entries must be received by January 12.