Smarta 100 / Special Awards Nominees: Innovation

The five companies that make the shortlist for the best use of innovation are those that have created something truly unique. That may be a new product that revolutionises an industry, or a slick service that’s shaking up the status quo. One thing’s for sure - they're being run by some of the most innovative entrepreneurial brains in Britain.

The prize

This category is sponsored by Make It Cheaper and will see the winning entry walk away with a week's stay at the exclusive Lower Mill Estate holiday house in the Cotswolds for up to five people.

Who will win?

Our judges decide on the overall winner from the shortlist of five companies you can see above. The winner is announced on 8 November at the Smarta 100 Awards Ceremony.

Historically, this is one of the toughest categories for our judges to decide on as, by nature, every business in the Smarta 100 will have created a little niche for itself through terrific innovation. The shortlist consistently think outside the box, coming up with innovative ways to improve our lives and expand their business in new ways.

The overall winner will have to stand head and shoulders above the others by proving it is the most disruptive in its sector, the most entrepreneurially-run company, the most promising business or the small business making the greatest improvements to its customers' lives in some way.

2011 winner

The winner of this category last year was Plumen. Having come up with the world's first designer energy saving lightbulb.

For more information about Make It Cheaper, click here