Paul Boateng will launch the scheme

Scotland was chosen as the launch venue to recognise the achievement of a large number of its businesses in last year's contest.

Glasgow was the only city north of the border eligible to take part when the scheme was run for the first time in 2001 and produced more nominations than anywhere else in Britain.

The Inner City 100 index is sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland and NatWest.

It highlights the success stories of companies which set up in urban areas, often making the most of low costs and a large pool of potential workers.

'Valuable contribution'

The project is backed by the Scottish Executive.

Social Justice Minister Iain Gray said: "Our social justice strategy highlights the importance of communities in working toward social inclusion, and enterprises such as those recognised in the Inner City 100 index have a valuable contribution to make in achieving this in deprived areas.

"These organisations can offer employment opportunities and generate wealth in the local economy.

The Inner City 100 index... shines the bright light of positive publicity on the fastest growing inner city companies

Paul Boateng Financial Secretary

"And the entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated can encourage, inspire and motivate those around them and can draw other businesses to less affluent communities."

Mr Boateng said there were many "local heroes" whose achievements - and efforts to challenge perceptions that there were 'no-go areas' for businesses - had to be celebrated.

"The Inner City 100 index does just this - shining the bright light of positive publicity on the fastest growing inner city companies," he said.