Flood mapping experts Ambiental have been named the Small Business of the Year at the annual Sussex Business Awards, the most prestigious celebration of business excellence and achievement from across the county.

In a ceremony at Brighton’s famous Grand Hotel on 10th December, the company’s MD, Dr Justin Butler collected the award, sponsored by Sussex Enterprise.

“We’re very pleased to win the award for Small Business of the Year at the Sussex Business Awards, which builds on our success at the Brighton & Hove Business Awards in 2012 and 2013,” said Dr Butler. “It’s been a challenging couple of years, and this is a great recognition for all the team’s efforts, and what we’ve achieved together in 2014.

“Above all our aim is to predict flood risks, prepare people and protect property at home and abroad, and it’s great to hear that the judges have recognised the value in what we do for people, businesses and the environment.”

As in previous years, the Sussex Innovation Centre sponsored the Award for Innovation in Business, which was won by Safeguard Europe. For the first time, Mike Herd, Executive Director of the Sussex Innovation Centre, stepped into the hotseat as the new Chair of the Judging Panel.

Ambiental is a global specialist in flood modelling, flood risk, and climate change and natural hazard analytics.