The Cumbria Network website has been shortlisted for this year’s Big Chip award for the best not for profit website in the north west.

The Big Chip Awards are the top awards for ICT and new media outside London. By the Industry, for the Industry

Designed by Hydrant Associates, the Network website is one of three shortlisted for the not for profit category, with the other two organisations based in Manchester and Merseyside.

Hydrant worked closely with The Cumbria Network, to replace their labour intensive email newsletter and information website with a community portal that now provides two way communication and participation for the majority of Cumbrias' creative community.

Immediate result was an instant 100% increase in unique visitors within the first two months from launch user numbers have climbed steadily to hit a 200% increase in traffic 6 months from launch. The website still generates a weekly newsletter, however the site also provides real additional value to members through artist profiles, forums, directories, sector specific and regional news.

The Big Chips are run for the industry, not for profit, by independent trade association Manchester Digital - with support and help from industry volunteers.

The awards are known for the highest standards of objectivity and integrity and are judged by a distinguished panel of experts from organisations such as New Media Age, Channel 4, Grey Worldwide and Index Ventures.

Now in their tenth year, the awards are eagerly anticipated by the whole of the North West digital sector. Over the last few years the awards have celebrated some of the best work from the North West's thriving digital sector.

Big Chip Ten will take place on 22 May 2008 in New Century Hall, Manchester.

For more information visit: http://www.bigchipawards.com/shortlist.asp