Pictured above: Simon Hill

A Coventry University MA student is hoping to pick up a couple of awards as individuals and firms from across Coventry and Warwickshire are waiting to find out who will triumph in the finals of next year's Midlands Business Awards.

Simon Hill, who runs Coventry-based Summit Marketing Solutions, which installs advertising display equipment in shops and offices, is in the final five in the Midlands Entrepreneur of the Year category and the Young Entrepreneur of the Year finals.

Simon, who graduated from Coventry University this year, set up Summit Marketing Solutions in 2008 while still a student. In his first year of operation, the firm received the "Most Creative Marketing Award" in the 2008 Business Enterprise Works New Business Awards."

Now, as well as studying for his MA, Simon is also passing on his skills to future budding entrepreneurs through his work with the University's Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship.

Simon said: "Obviously I'm delighted to find myself in the final line up in two of the categories of the Midlands Business Awards.

"Budgets are tight in the current economic climate and companies do not have the kind of money to spend on advertising in the conventional way and are always looking at cheaper options.

"When I set up SMS I believed I could offer a viable alternative. I am hoping that my success can help others to get a foot in the door and if what I have done can inspire others, then I'm happy."

Coventry University is also in the final line up in the Enterprising University of the Year category.

The awards, which are now in their fourth year, culminate in a gala dinner and ceremony to be held on Friday 29 January 2010 at the NEC Hilton Metropole Hotel.

This year's guest of honour will be Jerry Blackett, Chief Executive of Birmingham and Solihull Chamber of Commerce and Industry.