AUGUSTA — The Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership invites Maine companies to apply for the 2012 New England Innovation Awards.

According to a news release, this year marks the 26th year that the Smaller Business Association of New England has sponsored the competition to identify the region’s most dynamic and innovative firms.

“The New England Innovation Awards are among the most coveted and valuable recognitions bestowed on companies in the region. Winners in past years have benefited significantly from the prestige, publicity and contacts that accompany the awards. We encourage all Maine companies, and particularly Maine MEP clients, to contact us about supporting their nomination,” said Rosemary Presnar of the Maine MEP.

Last year, one of Maine MEP’s nominees out of a total of 180 nominations became a New England Innovation Award finalist. The firm, Biovation, LLC, a Boothbay-based biotech firm, won the award in the Rising Star category. Biovation CEO Kerem Durdag will be one of the judges for this year’s competition.

The awards are bestowed in three categories to for-profit companies headquartered in New England. The three business categories are technology, manufacturing and rising star.

The nomination deadline is Feb. 28. For more information, visit http://www.sbane.org/theinnovation awards/new-england innovation-awards-criteria/ or call 623-0680.