2024 Small Business Awards

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Welcome to the 2024 Small Business Awards

The 2024 Small Business Awards are now open! Enter today and share the story of your business journey, network with like-minded professionals, and receive recognition for your continuous improvement and dedication. Entering these awards is not just about winning; it’s about learning, growing, and striving for excellence in the competitive world of business.

Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the incredible contributions of small businesses across UK industry.

Before You Enter: What You Need To Know

Free entry in all sectors and categories

We know that many small business owners, entrepreneurs and larger organisations don't like to pay up front for awards, where fees range from £99 to more than £250 per category. With us, all your entries are free.

You only pay a fee if you win an award

It just makes sense. Why pay an entry fee when you get nothing in return? If you enter an award sector with Business Awards UK and win, you pay an Award Acceptance Fee, then enjoy a raft of benefits for winning.

Publicity Package

As a winner or finalist, you get credible industry recognition & publicity from National press releases, Google and Yahoo! News features, content marketing and case studies.

Social Marketing

Social media marketing is important for all businesses, which is why we announce your accolades on social platforms, and regularly engage with you and your followers.

Interviews & PR

We can create quality, in-depth content with your team, making you a trusted voice in your industry, and highlighting the achievements & success of your business or enterprise.

Fees

Winner
£375 +VAT

(Award Acceptance Fee)

Finalist
£0

(Free Forever)

Trophy
£99 +VAT

(per optional trophy)

Awards Worth Talking About...

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UK Business Experts

Our judging panel are business experts with a wealth of knowledge in various industries. They lend their experience and business acumen to the many award sectors we cover.

Our panel consists of dozens of private & public guest judges; below are a few of our business experts who will be selecting shortlists, winners and finalists in our awards!

Interested in being a guest judge? Contact us here.

Our Judges

Small Business Awards Categories

TypeAward / CategoryDescription / Criteria
PrimarySmall Business Of The Year 2024Recognising the outstanding achievements of a compact enterprise in 2024, the Small Business Of The Year award honours the firm that has demonstrated consistent growth, innovation, and a positive impact on its industry.
PrimaryFastest Growing Small BusinessCelebrating the most remarkable acceleration in business growth, the Fastest Growing Small Business award pays tribute to the company that has exhibited extraordinary expansion in revenue, market share, and employee numbers.
PrimaryBest Newcomer Small BusinessAn award for the most impressive new small business on the scene, the Best Newcomer Small Business category acknowledges the company that has made waves in its sector with an innovative approach, strong performance, and a clear vision for the future.
PrimaryBest Small Business TransformationThis award is for the small business that has undergone a remarkable transformation, successfully implementing significant changes to its operations, culture, or market position to achieve substantial improvements in performance and profitability.
PrimarySmall Business Disruptor Of The YearIn recognition of the company that has disrupted the status quo and shaken up its industry, the Small Business Disruptor Of The Year award celebrates the groundbreaking innovations and market disruptions introduced by a small business.
PrimaryTriumph Over Adversity AwardAn accolade for the business (or core staff) overcoming immense challenges to achieve success, the Triumph Over Adversity Award honours the resilience and determination of a company or individual(s) in the face of adversity.
By SizeLone Wolf Business of the YearShowcasing the remarkable accomplishments of a solo entrepreneur, the Lone Wolf Business of the Year award highlights the dedication, innovation, and achievements of a single individual in establishing and growing their business.
By SizeMicro Business of the YearAn award for the top performer among businesses with fewer than ten employees, the Micro Business of the Year category celebrates the exceptional achievements of a small enterprise with limited resources but boundless potential.
By SizeMid-Sized Business of the YearIn recognition of the extraordinary accomplishments of a medium-sized enterprise with 10+ employees, the Mid-Sized Business of the Year award honours the company that has demonstrated impressive growth, innovation, and impact on its industry.
Customer and CommunityBest Customer ServiceCelebrating the company that has delivered exceptional customer service, the Best Customer Service award acknowledges the small business that has consistently exceeded (and demonstrated via reviews or case studies) customer expectations delivering outstanding service quality and commitment to satisfaction.
Customer and CommunityMost Positive Impact / CSRAn accolade for the small business that has made the most significant positive impact through its corporate social responsibility initiatives, the Most Positive Impact / CSR award recognises the firm’s contributions to its community, environment, and stakeholders.
Customer and CommunitySustainability & EnvironmentShowcasing a company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices, the Sustainability & Environment award honours the small business that has implemented innovative measures to reduce its ecological footprint and promote sustainable growth.
Customer and CommunityBest Communication AwardIn recognition of the small business that has excelled in communication, the Best Communication Award celebrates the company’s demonstrated success in building strong connections with its customers/clients, fostering solid relationships, communicating effectively via phone, social media and email, and customer relationship management.
GeographyBest Local Small BusinessThis award is for the best small business that has made a significant impact on its local community, the Best Local Small Business category acknowledges the company’s contribution to local economic development, job creation, and community initiatives.
GeographyBest National Small BusinessAn accolade for the small business that has achieved national success, the Best National Small Business award recognises the company’s growth, innovation, and influence across the United Kingdom.
GeographyBest International Small BusinessCelebrating the small business with a global footprint, the Best International Small Business award honours the company that has expanded beyond UK borders to achieve success in international markets.
IndividualsBest Newcomer Leadership AwardIn recognition of a remarkable start-up or recently appointed founder, CEO or director, the Best Newcomer Leadership award acknowledges the individual’s exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and ability to drive their company towards success.
IndividualsSmall Business Leader of the YearAn award for the small business owner or manager who has demonstrated exemplary leadership, the Small Business Leader of the Year category celebrates the individual’s success in guiding their company to new heights and inspiring their team.
IndividualsSmall Consultancy of The YearCelebrating innovation, resilience, and exceptional client service in a small consultancy of less than 10 staff
IndividualsRising Star AwardShowcasing an individual with immense potential, the Rising Star Award recognises the accomplishments and future promise of a talented professional in the early stages of their career.
Tech & MarketingBest Marketing CampaignRecognising the most creative, effective and impactful marketing campaign, this category rewards those who demonstrate a strong return on investment, excellent brand awareness and a positive influence on customer behaviour.
Tech & MarketingBest Hyperlocal Marketing CampaignCelebrating the power of community-focused marketing, this accolade honours campaigns that successfully target a specific local audience, resulting in meaningful engagement and measurable business growth in the community.
Tech & MarketingBest Social Media MarketingAn award for the most outstanding social media marketing strategy that has achieved extraordinary results in terms of engagement, reach, and conversions, utilising various platforms and creative content to amplify brand presence.
Tech & MarketingBest Small Business WebsiteThis award is for small businesses with an exceptional online presence, including user-friendly design, engaging content, and seamless functionality, all contributing to a positive user experience and a strong digital footprint.
Tech & MarketingBest Use Of TechnologyIn recognition of a small business that has harnessed the potential of cutting-edge technology to improve operations, enhance customer experience, and drive growth, this category rewards innovation and forward-thinking.
Tech & MarketingMost Innovative Small BusinessAn accolade for the small business that has made significant strides in their industry by introducing new ideas, products, or services, this award celebrates creativity and the ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape.
Tech & MarketingBest Mobile SiteShowcasing small businesses with an outstanding mobile website that delivers a seamless, responsive, and enjoyable user experience across various devices, this category recognises excellence in mobile web design and performance.
Tech & MarketingBest AppAn award for the most exceptional app developed by a small business, demonstrating innovative features, excellent user interface, and a strong impact on customer engagement, satisfaction, and loyalty.
Tech & MarketingBest Live Support SystemIn recognition of businesses that provide exceptional real-time customer support through live chat, phone, or other digital channels, this category honours those who excel in problem-solving and maintaining strong customer relationships.
Tech & MarketingBest Cybersecurity & ResilienceAn accolade for small businesses demonstrating a robust approach to cybersecurity, proactively safeguarding their digital assets and customer information, and demonstrating resilience in the face of potential cyber threats.
WorkplaceDiversity & Inclusion ChampionCelebrating businesses that actively promote diversity and inclusion within their organisation, this award recognises those who create an inclusive work environment, encouraging equal opportunities for all.
WorkplaceBest Work EnvironmentThis award is for businesses that have created an exceptional work environment, prioritising employee well-being, fostering positive work culture, and providing a stimulating, supportive space for employees to thrive.
WorkplaceBest Training & DevelopmentAn award for businesses with outstanding employee training and development programmes, empowering individuals to grow professionally, improve their skills, and contribute to the overall success of the company.
WorkplaceSmall Family Business of the YearShowcasing the most successful and inspiring small family-owned businesses, this category recognises those who maintain a strong family ethos, demonstrate excellent business acumen, and contribute positively to their local community.

Small Business Awards Entry Form

Deadline: 15th January 2024

If you need any assistance completing this form, please contact us:

Award winning entries typically provide over 500 words providing meaningful and relevant details related to the categories they have entered. Telling us why you are entering these particular categories tends to help. Be specific: for example, if the category is Fastest Growing Company, provide details of how your company has grown and include basic revenue figures (eg. YoY £/%) so we can get a feel for the business growth you’re experiencing. Where possible and relevant to do so, including links to reviews/testimonials and digital assets to support your entry will also help.

EXAMPLE ENTRY:

Small Business of the Year + Sustainability & Environment

Introducing Charming Cheddar Co., a delightful and innovative artisan cheese shop located in the picturesque market town of Whittington, nestled within the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. Established in 2019 by the affable Thompson family, Charming Cheddar Co. has gained a devoted following of cheese enthusiasts and casual consumers alike, all captivated by their delectable selection of expertly crafted cheeses and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the shop.

At Charming Cheddar Co., the focus is on marrying traditional cheese-making methods with contemporary innovation. The family prides themselves on their commitment to using locally sourced, organic milk from nearby farms to produce their mouth-watering range of cheeses. The collection boasts a diverse array of flavours, from the rich, creamy “Whittington Wonder” to the zesty “Cotswolds Crumble.” The Thompsons are always experimenting with new and intriguing combinations, such as their wildly popular “Blooming Blueberry Brie.”

The heart and soul of the Charming Cheddar Co. is the Thompson family, who are a true testament to the power of unity and passion. Each family member plays a vital role in the business. The patriarch, Charles Thompson, is the master cheese-maker, drawing on generations of knowledge passed down through his family. His wife, Emily, uses her background in marketing and design to create the brand’s whimsical, vintage-inspired packaging and promotional materials. Their children, Lily and Jack, assist with day-to-day operations and have become social media stars in their own right, with their lively cheese-tasting videos earning thousands of views and likes.

Charming Cheddar Co. has made a significant impact on the local community, creating jobs and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of Whittington’s high street. The Thompsons are dedicated to supporting other small businesses in the area and have collaborated with a variety of local artisans, from bakers to chocolatiers, to showcase the best of the region’s produce.

Sustainability is a core value for the Thompson family, who work tirelessly to minimise their environmental footprint. The Charming Cheddar Co. uses eco-friendly packaging, including reusable wax wraps and recyclable boxes, and encourages customers to return their containers for a discount on their next purchase. Additionally, the family is committed to reducing food waste, often donating surplus cheese to local food banks and shelters.

In their short time in business, Charming Cheddar Co. has received numerous accolades for the quality and innovation of their cheeses. Their “Whittington Wonder” recently took home the top prize at the prestigious British Cheese Awards, propelling the small shop into the national spotlight. Despite their newfound fame, the Thompson family remains grounded and dedicated to their customers, ensuring that each visitor receives a personalised and memorable experience.

As a testament to their dedication to exceptional customer service, Charming Cheddar Co. offers cheese tastings, workshops, and private events. The shop has become a sought-after destination for tourists and locals alike, with visitors flocking from far and wide to indulge in the Thompsons’ delightful array of cheeses and the unique charm of their shop.

In conclusion, Charming Cheddar Co. embodies the essence of the Small Business of the Year Award. The Thompson family’s commitment to quality, innovation, sustainability, and community engagement sets them apart from their peers and makes Charming Cheddar Co. a truly deserving recipient of this esteemed accolade.

Small Business Awards 2024

Thank you for choosing Business Awards UK. Please complete the following entry form and supply any additional documents using the file upload section at the end of the form.

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About Our Sponsors

Following their “Not So Small Business of the Year” award win in the 2022 Small Business Awards, we quickly realised that our clients could benefit from their valuable service. We are now very proud partners with AddStars, and happily recommend their service with our clients as sponsors of Business Awards UK.

AddStars is a company that provides immense value to the many small to medium businesses we work with, who share our philosophy that all businesses should be able to celebrate their accolades, no matter their size.

AddStars Ltd is a progressive independent company which has developed a simple idea with a huge benefit. 

AddStars won’t try to baffle you with endless technical mumbo jumbo. Instead, they prefer to stick to straight-talking and explanations in simple terms that are easy to understand and even easier to put in place.

That’s why everything AddStars does is focused on the needs of small to medium businesses. Their mission is to provide the most affordable way of getting your hard-earned reviews working even harder for you on Google, and driving more prospective customers your way.

Learn more about AddStars here