How to Enter
We welcome entries from businesses of all sizes and sectors providing they have a valid Somerset postcode (see our terms and conditions below for full details).
Winning companies should be innovative, progressive and, most importantly, profitable.
Applications for a Somerset Business Award need to be made online via our online entry form.
EACH ENTRY MUST INCLUDE:
- An 800-word statement
- Six key points to summarise
- Up to five supporting attachments (no larger than 2MB each)
- A high-resolution company logo
IN ADDITION TO THE CRITERIA, YOUR 800-WORD APPLICATION NEEDS TO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING (WHERE APPLICABLE):
- A background on your business and a brief history
- Why your company should win
- How you are better than your competitors
- How your business has improved based on the category requirements
- An indication of how the business has benefited financially as a result of improvements in this category
- Financial records (turnover, profit/loss figures will be treated in confidence)
Please check our Entry Terms & Conditions to ensure that your business is eligible to enter.
Business of the Year Award
(Small)
Sponsored by TDA
This award recognises businesses with 1-10 employees.
All Winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth…
Business of the Year Award
(Medium)
Sponsored by BT
This award recognises businesses with 11-50 employees.
All Winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth…
Business of the Year Award
(Large)
Sponsored by PKF Francis Clark
This award recognises businesses with 51+ employees.
All Winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth…
Albert Goodman Family Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by Albert Goodman
This award recognises sound, family-owned businesses across all sizes and sectors.
The winning company will demonstrate how the family has had significant influence on the business, such that one or more family members are involved in the management…
Best Use of Technology Award
Sponsored by Porter Dodson
This award is aimed at businesses who use new technology to assist with business growth/development, whether it be providing new services or new innovative types of working…
Charity of the Year Award
Sponsored by Clarke Willmott
This award celebrates the fantastic work of charitable organisations.
The winning Somerset-based charity will need to demonstrate not just how much money it raises or spends, but also how it uses fundraising…
Employer of the Year (NEW)
Sponsored by Elite Staffing Solutions
This award recognises organisations that have created a stimulating and supportive work environment and a real commitment to the welfare of its employees…
Investing in Somerset Award
Sponsored by Hinkley Point C
Does your business live for all things local?
This award recognises companies who are passionate about supporting Somerset’s economy through local activity…
New Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by Teapot Creative
Judges will be looking for innovative ideas or a new concept for businesses that have been trading for less than three complete financial years…
Outstanding Achievement Award (NEW)
Sponsored by Weston College
This new award recognises an organisation or individual who has gone above and beyond for the benefit of others, outside of the remit of their day-to-day job. Maybe they have exceeded a personal goal or…
Private & Public Collaboration Award (NEW)
Sponsored by Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets Association
This award acknowledges the collaboration of private and public partners whose joint work enhances the Somerset economy by providing innovative and sustainable products, solutions or strategies….
Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by Brook Financial Management
Are you a business with more than just “good” customer service? This category recognises companies that provide a level of service over and above normal industry expectations…
Somerset Manufacturer & Producer Award
Sponsored by BFS
This award recognises the most innovative and agile manufacturers and producers in the county.
The judges will be looking for a commitment to proven research & development practices, a passion for continuous improvement and a solid track record of business planning and growth…
Young Business Employee of the Year Award
Sponsored by Clarks International
Nominated by their employer, this category is open to an individual aged 30 and under who has had a significant impact on the business and made a personal contribution to a project or the business as a whole. This might include career progression, performance, relevant personal or professional qualifications or specific training…
Key Dates:
30th May – Launch Event
3rd June – Entries Open
4th July – Benefits of Entering & Top Tips
23rd August – Entries Close
3rd-20th September – Judges Visits
25th October – Awards Ceremony
