The print franchise network is searching for an individual whose business idea has been so inspirational they can be crowned "Prontaprint Entrepreneur of the Year 2012".

The award has been launched to highlight how Britain’s entrepreneurs are surviving – or even thriving – despite the difficult economic climate.

The winner will be decided by a panel of judges including Andy Bounds of the Financial Times and Levi Roots, who appeared on Dragon’s Den in 2007 with his Reggae Reggae sauce brand. The judges are looking for inspirational entrepreneurs with flair who stand out from the crowd.

Prontaprint chief executive Sara Jamison said: "At Prontaprint we see and hear many original and outstanding commercial ideas, and we get asked for the most amazing display ideas, logos and direct mail campaigns.

"Maybe someone has are shown real growth in a competitive environment; strong return on investment; had an innovative advertising or marketing campaign; an inspired direct marketing or online campaign; or found a gap in the market that’s now soaring. We really want to identify the people who are helping Britain out of the recession while others like politicians just talk about it."

Entries for the award close on 12 December. The winner will receive £5,000 and an engraved glass trophy.