PORTLAND — Maine-based family-owned businesses with a goal to improve their visibility may find that opportunity through awards now being announced.

The 12th Maine Family Business Awards will take place May 16 at the Marriott Hotel in South Portland. Nominations will be accepted until Feb. 26 and completed applications are due April 1.

Besides showcasing a firm’s achievements, the awards offer an opportunity to network and hear from a nationally prominent speaker, whose business also is family-owned. The 2010 awards drew nearly 400 to meet 18 finalists.

Any Maine-based business with two or more members of the same family operating or owning is eligible. Nominations may be made by anyone, in or outside the business.

An independent judging panel selects winners based upon varied criteria, such as: business success, positive business and family linkages, contributions to the community and industry, family participation, work environment, communication, innovative business practices or strategies.

Nominating forms may be downloaded at www.fambusiness.org; or, contact the Institute office at 780-5939. The website also contains information for businesses not entering the awards but interested in the institute’s programs and membership.