Don't miss this blue chip opportunity

Nation's Business, Nov, 1997 by Mary Y. McElveen

Each year, the Blue Chip Enterprise Initiative seeks out small companies nationwide that have overcome obstacles at various stages in their development and emerged stronger.

These firms' willingness to relate their experiences provides insightful lessons for other entrepreneurs and offers the businesses the potential to receive high-profile publicity.

The deadline for applications for the 1998 awards has been extended to Nov. 21. Honorees chosen by an independent panel of judges will be selected from each state, after which four national Blue Chip Enterprises will be selected and honored at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting in Washington, D.C.

If your business qualifies for award consideration, call 1-800-FOR-BCEI (1-800-367-2234) to obtain an application. The annual competition is open to any U.S. for-profit company that has been in continuous operation for at least three years and employs five to 400 people.

The application requires describing in 500 words or less the challenges your firm faced, how it overcame them, and how the business is better off today. Taking a few moments to reflect on your company's accomplishments could lead to greater recognition and stature for your firm in the business world.

The Blue Chip Enterprise Initiative is sponsored by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (known as MassMutual -- the Blue Chip Company), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Nation's Business, and "First Business," the morning business-news television program presented by the Chamber.