The mystery theme will be unveiled along with the winners during the Awards ceremony and gala function tomorrow, at the Mount Isa Civic Centre.

A total of 68 finalist organisations and individuals will be competing for the top honours of Business of the Year along with, Young Business Person of the Year, Indigenous Business of the Year and eight business and three customer service excellence categories.

The winning organisations are selected by an expert panel of judges for their ability to demonstrate their commitment to innovation, sustainability, growth, customer service, corporate responsibility and overall commercial success.

The Northern Outback region covers approximately 340,00km2 with finalists travelling from all over the region to attend tomorrow night's gala event.

Mount Isa Chamber of Commerce manager Zoe Dark said that the awards have grown from strength to strength since they began twelve years ago.

"This year we received record nominations and finalist submissions, with many individuals and organisations entering for the first time," said Ms Dark.

"The awards recognise achievements of northern outback businesses and provide a great opportunity to celebrate with your colleagues with an exciting line up of entertainment and food."

With nominations up by 50 per cent, it was a clear indication that small and medium businesses in the Northern Outback region were leading the way in the State's tough economic climate Member for Mount Isa Robbie Katter said.

"We have about 2000 businesses in the Northern Outback region and more than 50 businesses and individuals were nominated for the awards this year.

"It's been a tough job for the judges, but 19 winners will be announced on the night," Mr Katter said.

Finalists made up a mix of small and medium operations from across 10 different industry sectors.

"From engineering and mining services, to retail, education, community organisations and tourism operators - these are the services that give strength to the economic backbone of this state," Mr Katter said.

The State Government would do well to observe the good business practices of our winners who have weathered the events of the global financial crisis by investing in their staff, in marketing and infrastructure and visionary plans, he said.

Mount Isa City Council Mayor Tony McGrady said he hoped this year's business awards encouraged all businesses to continue thriving in the city.

"I am looking forward to congratulating each award recipient at the business awards ceremony on Saturday night," Cr McGrady said.