British entrepreneurs have the chance to win £25,000 as the search for Britain's best new start-up business gets under way.

HSBC's Start-Up Stars Awards will see the winning entrepreneur pick up £25,000 for the best new business that is less than three years old.

£10,000 will also be awarded to the best new green business, the best new business set up by a graduate, and the best new business achieving export success.

"The recession can be a trigger for people to decide that they want to take control of their own lives and invest in their own business," said Huw Morgan, head of business banking for HSBC.

"Start-Up Stars is all about enabling people to achieve that dream and demonstrating, through practical example, that with the right help and support, there are still opportunities out there for people with the dedication and will to succeed."

Any new business owners wishing to enter can call 0800 085 3411 or visit www.startupstars.hsbc.co.uk [1]