State-registered businesses may compete for a spot in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2011 Hawaii Business Innovation Showcase, which gives them a chance to share their ideas, products and services with a global audience.

The APEC 2011 Host Committee, the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and the state’s four mayors announced the start of the contest yesterday. Thirty-five businesses will be recognized and an overall winner named.

“Hawaii businesses have extraordinary stories to tell, and the Business Innovation Showcase will bring them to the forefront,” said Peter Ho, APEC 2011 Hawaii Host Committee chairman.

Those chosen will be showcased to 20,000 APEC attendees in multiple venues during the course of APEC Leaders’ Week, which will take place in Honolulu from Nov. 7 to 13, Ho said. The Leaders’ Meeting, which takes place Nov. 12 and 13, is expected to attract

approximately 20,000 attendees including heads of state, ministers, business leaders and media, he said.

Businesses can apply at www.apec2011hawaii.com. The application deadline is June 30, and awards will be announced Sept. 1.

The statewide evaluation panel is looking for businesses and business-related projects that are attractive to markets outside of Hawaii. Priority also will be given to innovative companies that have positively affected Hawaii’s business environment, have growth and investment potential and abide by environmentally sound programs and practices.