The deadline for entries has now passed.

There are 10 awards for which private equity houses, professional advisers and bankers can enter themselves.

An independent research team from the London Business School Private Equity Institute scrutinised each entry nomination. This team also reviewed other potential candidates in its assessment. The awards are therefore not confined to those who nominate themselves.

The London Business School Private Equity Institute compiled a shortlist for each category and interviews were be conducted with all shortlisted candidates. The research team then provided a detailed and comprehensive dossier to a panel of distinguished expert judges. The judges submitted their individual scores for each category and then met to finalise their verdicts at a judging session chaired by Real Deals and the London Business School.

This careful and detailed process ensures that the Private Equity Awards set the benchmark for excellence in UK private equity. They represent the highest accolade for the UK industry's dealmakers, advisers and bankers. And maybe this will be your turn to win one.