Who created the Award? Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Why? To commemorate the woman who inherited the company which now bears her name. Who was she? Nicole Ponsardin. She married Francois Clicquot and became known as Veuve Clicquot after his death. Why was she so special? In 1805, at the age of 27, she took over her husband's vineyards and from small beginnings created an internationally known company. What were her achievements? She invented a system for clarifying the wine, still used today by all champagne producers. It was she who pioneered rose champagne. Perseverance against the trade blockade during the time of Napoleon made her a formidable exporter. Her tenacity gained her champagne a foothold in Russia and her wine was to become the champagne of the Russian Court. When did the Award begin? In 1972, the year after the company had celebrated its bi-centenary. This year will be the 35th in Britain. What use is the Award? Each year tells the story of five women who are high achievers in business life. Their stories are an encouragement and inspiration to younger, aspiring women. It salutes the women of achievement -many of whom work quietly and without acclaim in the many different businesses and industries that contribute to the economic life of this country. How do people get nominated? In December the regional trade and national press, business groups, the FTSE Chairmen, women's networks, venture capitalists and other business organisations are circularised to elicit nominations. How many nominations? Between 50 - 80 most with supporting evidence - accounts, product information, CV and company profile. Who judges? Nominations will be considered by a panel of 10 respected figures from the worlds of finance, the media and business - including previous winners of the award. What is the criteria? In theming this year's award Veuve Clicquot acknowledge the increasing importance of social and environmental issues in the success of any 21st century business, both as regards the operation of the business, and its impact on the broader community. Therefore, the judges will be looking for a genuine commitment to responsible and sustainable growth, alongside the more traditional indicators of strong business leadership: motivational ability, entrepreneurship, business acumen, dynamism, innovation, style, tenacity, charisma and, of course, a healthy balance sheet. When is the shortlist announced? At a photocall in late March or early April. How many women are shortlisted? Up to five. When is the winner announced? April. What is the prize? The presentation of the award will take place at a ceremony in central London. The winner will then take part in the International Businesswoman Forum at Veuve Clicquot in Reims, visiting the Manoir de Verzy and our vineyards, where she will have a vine dedicated to her. Who is the current holder of the title? Carolyn McCall, Chief Executive, Guardian Media. Past winners include: Ms Rosaleen Blair, CEO of Alexander Mann Solutions, Ms Vivienne Cox, BP, Chief Executive for Gas, Power & Renewables, and Integrated Supply & Trading, Ms Chey Garland, Founder and Managing Director, Garlands Call Centres, Dame Linda Bennett, Founder and Managing Director of LK Bennett; Dawn Gibbins of the Flowcrete Group; Anita Roddick, Body Shop International; Mair Barnes, Woolworths plc; Ann Gloag, Stagecoach Holdings plc; Nicola Foulston, Brands Hatch plc; Marjorie Scardino, Pearson plc; Anne Wood, Ragdoll Productions; Dianne Thompson, Camelot plc; Barbara Cassani, Go Fly UK. With so many high achieving women in business is the Award redundant? Women are still very much a minority group in higher management and in the entrepreneurial world. The encouragement and recognition of the Award remains valid for the 21st century. Women hold only 110 of the directorships in FTSE 100 companies. How can a nomination be made? Nominate online or call 02072359411 for a nomination booklet.