That's what Noah's Ark Veterinary Services co-owner Vicky Ireland believes the awards enable the Port's businesses to do.

"The awards are a really good opportunity not only to promote your business to the public but to other businesses as well," Ms Ireland said.

"I would definitely encourage everyone to be involved.

"Not only to promote your business to your clients or potential clients but to other businesses in the area as well."

Noah's Ark Veterinary Services has been a finalist in the awards for 13 consecutive years.

It was first nominated just months after opening its services in Port Stephens and has been a finalist since.

The veterinary clinic became a sponsor of the awards in 2009.

Ms Ireland said the awards made staff strive for excellence.

Plus, the awards night was fun and a good night out for staff.

"We continue to participate in the awards to ensure we keep our standards high," Ms Ireland said.

"It's a benchmark and every year we work on exceeding it, striving for excellent customer service.

"The staff absolutely love the night," she said.

"It is a good team bonding experience."

Voting for this year's Annual Business Awards opens on July 2.

Voting will close on July 31.

More than 14,000 votes were counted in last year's awards.

The awards night will be held at Wests Nelson Bay Diggers on Wednesday, October 14.