AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development is accepting nominations for the 2012 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence.

“The Award for Business Excellence represents the innovative spirit that has earned Maine a reputation for top quality workmanship, service and a commitment to excellence,” DECD Commissioner George Gervais said in a news release. “We encourage any of Maine’s for-profit businesses to get involved.”

Companies may be nominated or they may nominate themselves, and businesses of all sizes are encouraged to apply. Nomination forms can be obtained by going to http://www.maine.gov/decd/, by contacting Brian Doyle at 624-9807, via email at brian.doyle@maine.gov or by writing him at DECD, 59 State House Station, Cross Office Building, 3rd Floor, Augusta, ME 04333.

The deadline for nominations is March 23.