The awards will be presented in four categories -- Best Micro Finance Institution (MFI) of the Year, Most Innovative Business of the Year, Best Woman Micro Entrepreneur of the Year and Best Micro Entrepreneur of the Year -- after the selection process ends in September, says a press release.

The objective of the GMA programme is to promote micro enterprise and increase awareness about financial service needs. Besides, the aim of the initiative is to recognise the success stories of the entrepreneurs and put the spotlight on local micro entrepreneurs who are helping lift the economic fortunes of their communities and bringing more capital into their developing economies.

The deadline of sending nominations for GMA award programme is September 7, 2005. The GMA programme is supported by the Citigroup Foundation, philanthropic arm of Citigrouop and the UNCDF. Citibank NA Bangladesh is also extending its local support to the programme. For more information and to get an application form, people concerned are requested to visit the website at www.asia.citibank.com/bangladesh/corporate.