A Solihull company has made it through to the national finals of a business award after being named most promising small business in the West Midlands.

Venatus Business Intelligence, which was set up in 2002, was awarded the regional accolade by members of the British Chamber of Commerce as part of its annual Chamber Awards.

The specialist business recruitment company, which is a member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, could now be in line for a £25,000 prize if it is successful in the national finals.

Pete Gwilliam, a founding director of the Warwick Road-based company, said the award is acknowledgement that Venatus aims to be different.

"We have tried to be different from other recruitment companies and the award is acknowledgement of the fact that we focus on the quality of the delivery rather than quantity and concentrate on delivering a long-term solution to our clients," he said.

The 16-strong company works with clients across the public and private sector to attract new talent in order to fulfil and exceed a company's business plan.

"We aim to deliver the solution by focusing on finding the most appropriate fit for our clients, which ensures they are not bombarded with time wasting interferences whilst still being involved at every stage," said Pete, who set up the company with co-director Simon Smith after both spent time working for other recruitment companies.

" I have loved every minute of the last three years and am really proud of our contribution.

"Without sounding too holistic, I have a passion for the fact that this job involves enhancing and improving people's lives.

"The company is a catalyst for change in the sense that we help to advance an individual's career and help companies to exceed their business plans."

Pete added that the company also develops relationships with clients through organising trips to sporting events, including a trip to the Oval to see England win the Ashes.

Larry Coltman, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "The success of Venatus shows that we have many companies throughout the region that have proven to be successful after starting up only a short time ago.

"More and more companies are realising the potential for growth that comes with being based within the area."

The winners of the Chamber Awards will be announced at a Gala Dinner on November 24 at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.