Have you battled against the odds to set up your small business?

Barclays Trading Places Awards are designed to acknowledge the achievements of people who have turned their lives around through their business.

Unlike many other awards, the Trading Places Awards are not judged on the successes of the company, but in how the individual has overcome adversity both within their professional and personal lives.

"Trading Places is a celebration of unsung heroes who, in spite of great personal challenges, have taken steps to establish a sustainable business and in doing so changed the direction of their lives for the better" said John Davis, Barclays' marketing director for local business.

There are Awards for the top ten finalists and prizes including cash, directory advertising from Thompson Local and software courtesy of Microsoft.

So if you have faced challenges personally or professionally and want to apply for The Barclays Trading Places Awards, click here for more information.